Getting ready to travel for the holidays? You’re not alone! The roads are about to get packed as millions of people head out to celebrate. But all that extra traffic, combined with wintery conditions and sometimes too much holiday cheer, means we must be extra cautious. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and make sure your holidays are about good memories, not close calls.
By the Numbers: The Dangers of Holiday Driving
In 2023, the National Safety Council (NSC) predicted a total of 1,227 traffic fatalities over the Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s travel periods. This number is certainly sobering, but what exactly makes driving during the holidays riskier than other times of the year? Let’s take a look:
More traffic: In 2023, AAA predicted 49.1 million Americans would travel by car over Thanksgiving weekend and another 104 million from December 23 through the end of the year. Congested roads create more opportunities for traffic incidents.
Winter weather: Every year, more than 1,300 people are killed and over 116,800 are injured in crashes on icy, slushy, or snowy pavement.
Impaired driving: Holiday celebrations often lead to more impaired people on the road. In December 2022 alone, there were 1,062 fatalities from alcohol-related crashes.
Less daylight: Shorter days mean more time driving after dark. Even though only 25% of driving occurs at night, that's the time when 50% of accidents occur.
Distracted and drowsy driving: Late-night festivities and long-distance travel often mean drivers are hitting the roads tired and less focused. Approximately 13% of traffic fatalities on Thanksgiving and Christmas are caused by driving distractions, and another 3.3% involve drowsy drivers.
Mark Your Calendars: Important Holiday Dates
While driving hazards occur throughout the winter months, there are a few dates that require you to be even more alert. According to the NSC, the main holiday travel periods in 2024 are:
Thanksgiving: Wednesday, November 28 at 6 p.m. through Sunday, December 1 at 11:59 p.m.
Christmas: Tuesday, December 24 at 6 p.m. through Wednesday, December 25 at 11:59 p.m.
New Year’s: Tuesday, December 31 at 6 p.m. through Wednesday, January 1 at 11:59 p.m.
Stay Safe with Smart Driving Habits
Taking a few simple precautions and following best practices can help you avoid traffic incidents, so you can focus on enjoying the holidays. Keep these safe driving tips in mind.
Obey speed limits. From heavier traffic to slippery roads, there are plenty of reasons to avoid speeding. Obey posted limits, so remember that it’s okay to drive slower if road conditions are less than optimal.
Always buckle up. It’s a simple move that can save a life. Buckle up every time you get behind the wheel, and ensure all your passengers do, too.
Limit distractions. With more traffic and pedestrians out and about, staying focused is important. Put your phone away while driving and minimize in-car distractions so you can keep your full attention on the road.
Stay awake and alert. Make sure you’re well-rested before getting behind the wheel. Take regular breaks during long drives, and avoid driving during hours when you’d typically be asleep.
Plan for a sober driver. Holiday gatherings often involve alcohol. If you plan to drink, arrange for a designated driver or alternative transportation so you don’t endanger yourself and others on the road.
Prepare for winter weather. When driving on icy or snowy roads, reduce speed, increase following distance, and avoid sudden movements. Get your car ready for winter by checking tire tread, battery health, and fluid levels. And keep an emergency kit with essentials like blankets, food, and a flashlight.
Get Holiday Ready with a Defensive Driving Course
You can give yourself the gift of added safety and confidence by taking iDriveSafely’s online defensive driving course. It’s a quick, easy, and fun way to learn how to handle unexpected situations and improve reaction times. When you’re done, you’ll be ready to handle it all, from adverse weather conditions to aggressive drivers.
These new skills will help with day-to-day driving and are even more important if you’re planning long-distance holiday travel. Plus, you could earn yourself an insurance discount, giving you even more reasons to celebrate.
Updated 11/22/2024
