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Pasco County Auto Accident Injury Lawyer :: Tips to Avoid Potential Dangers of Holiday Travel
For many people, the holidays mean travelling to other cities or states to visit family and friends. According to the Unites States Department of Transportation, more than 90 percent of holiday travel occurs in passenger vehicles, and the number of people traveling 50 miles or more significantly increases traffic around and during the holiday season. When heavy traffic is combined with other roadway dangers, the results can be disastrous. If you or someone you love is involved in an unfortunate accident this holiday season, you should consult with an injury lawyer as soon as possible. Any damages you suffer from a car accident can be recovered by filing a personal injury lawsuit. In addition to property damages, these losses can include medical bills, lost wages, physical pain, disability, disfigurement and even mental anguish. With that said, it is very important to make sure you do everything in your power to protect yourself and your legal rights.
Heavy traffic alone can be dangerous to motorists and their passengers. However, the holiday season brings up many other risks to drivers. The following information can help you avoid many of these hazards.
Winter Weather – Most Florida drivers are inexperienced when it comes to driving in winter weather conditions, like ice or snow. Inclement weather can hinder your vehicle’s performance and visibility, creating a serious risk for accidents. Always check the weather conditions along your route before you start your trip so that you can avoid driving through storms if possible. Another important tip is to get your car check out by a professional before heading out on the highway.
Impaired Motorists – The holidays and drinking usually go hand-in-hand. Statistics show that the number of impaired drivers increases during the holiday season, which places you at risk on the roadway even if you are not drinking. If you plan on attending a holiday party and drinking, make sure you have a safe way to get home.
Aggressive Drivers – The holidays can be exciting, but also stressful at the same time. People often get frustrated with the congestion on the roadways and take their aggression out on other drivers in their path. If you start to feel threatened by another driver in your direction, do not engage in any communication with them. Instead, pull over to a safe place and wait for them to drive past you.
If you are involved in an accident this holiday season, call 911 if anyone is injured. Also, try and record as much information as possible about the accident. Take pictures of the scene and any damages that occurred, and get any contact information from the other parties involved as well as any witnesses. Always get a medical evaluation after being involved in an accident to make sure any injuries you have suffered are properly documented. Lastly, before you make any statements to the insurance companies involved, investigators or other parties, contact a Pasco County Auto Accident Injury Lawyer at Whittel & Melton – 727-847-2299. We are available 24/7 this holiday season, so do not hesitate to contact us anytime.
Photo credit: Bruce McKay Yellow Snow Photography / Foter.com / CC BY-SA