The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year to be on the road. Throughout this time of year, motor vehicle safety is impacted by last-minute shoppers, social visits and unpredictable weather.

BEFORE YOU HIT THE ROAD

• Make sure that your car is ready for travel.
• Check the tire tread, battery, antifreeze, windows, and brakes.
• Allow extra time in your schedule.
• Have a cell phone with you for emergencies.
• Avoid driving late at night. Drunk driving occurs more often during this time, especially on weekends.

CREATING A SAFETY KIT

Keep a safety kit in your vehicle. This kit should include:

• A flashlight with extra batteries
• Jumper cables
• First-aid kit
• Water
• Non-perishable food items, such as canned goods and a can opener
• Matches
• Blankets
• Flares
• Ice scraper
• Small shovel

TIPS FOR THE ROAD

• Make sure everyone in the vehicle wears a seat belt or is buckled into the appropriate booster seat or car seat at all times, even for short trips.
• Avoid driving during normal sleep hours.
• Stop for a 15-minute rest every two hours.
• Limit driving to 350 miles per day or no more than eight hours on the road to avoid drowsy driving.
• Travel well-lighted and busy streets whenever possible. If you need to ask for directions, stop in an open, public area.
• If you have a flat tire or other car problems, pull over to the side of the road.
• Listening to headphones while driving is distracting and dangerous. It is safest to play music through the vehicle’s speakers.
• Driving demands your full attention. Never talk on the phone, read or send text messages while behind the wheel.
• Drive responsibly and obey speed limits.
• Listen while driving. Snow can soften the sound of approaching vehicles.

Content provided by the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s

For more safety information, visit:

• Farm Safety
• Fire Safety
• Home Safety
• Sports & Recreation Safety