DRIVING SAFETY TIPS FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON IN ARIZONA
May 3, 2018
With the holiday season upon us, there is plenty to celebrate – family, friends, food, and the list goes on. But it also a season to be cautious on the roads. With holiday celebrations come increased instances of drunk driving, and with winter weather comes precipitous driving conditions – even in Arizona. The Phoenix car accident lawyers at Wattel & York hope everyone follows these driving safety tips to keep you and those around you on the roads safe, so you can focus on the festivities.
BE PREPARED FOR WINTER WEATHER HAZARDS
While the snowbirds flock to Arizona to escape snow, one of the marvels of this state is the unique geography. It means that you can find a diversity of climates, and even the occasional snowfall in places like Phoenix and Tucson.
The Arizona Department of Transportation has cautioned that drivers should be prepared for holiday season driving hazards. This means knowing your route, having a full or nearly-full tank of gas, and knowing the weather conditions of your destination.
OTHER WINTER DRIVING SAFETY TIPS INCLUDE:
- Be sure your vehicle is equipped for cold weather, especially if traveling north or into the mountains. This includes refilling antifreeze, replacing windshield wipers, using a winter grade motor oil, and installing snow tires or chains where recommended.
- Carry a fully-charged cell phone and drinking water.
- Dress for the weather – bring gloves, scarves, and extra socks.
- Equip your vehicle with safety flares, an ice scraper, a map, some snacks, a collapsible snow shovel, and a first-aid kit.
- Be aware of wet or slippery road conditions, and know how to control your vehicle on black ice. Reduce speed and rate of acceleration; do not use cruise control; leave plenty of room between vehicles; and remember that the roads on bridges ice over first.
- Do not attempt to pass a snow plow.
- If you must stop on the road, pull off as far as possible away from travel lanes.
Of course, being aware of other drivers is a key to avoid becoming the next victim of a drunk driver.
SOME SIGNS THAT A DRIVER IS INTOXICATED INCLUDE:
- Erratic movements, including swerving, weaving, or rapid accelerating or braking
- Driving more than 10 mph below the speed limit
- Driving on the wrong side of the road or anywhere vehicles are not supposed to be
- Not driving with headlights on at night
If you see that someone operating a vehicle on a roadway is under the influence, keep a wide perimeter and pull over to report the driver to the authorities.
A PHOENIX HEAD-ON COLLISION LAWYER CAN HELP
If you or a close family member are the unfortunate victim of a winter driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation. An Arizona car accident attorney can help you determine your rights.
A serious auto accident causes not just immediate injury but months, and sometimes years, of mounting medical bills, lost wages, and even the lives of drivers and occupants. But Arizona law limits the amount of time a victim has to file a claim for compensation; consulting with a Phoenix DUI accident lawyer at Wattel & York will give you your best chance to hold those at fault responsible.
Call to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. You never pay unless we win.
Resources:
- Arizona Department of Transportation, Transportation Safety: Weather, http://www.azdot.gov/about/transportation-safety/KnowSnow/know-snow-and-ice
- MADD, How to Spot a Drunk Driver, https://www.madd.org/get-help/concerned-citizen/
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