Road Safety For Labor Day Weekend Around San Diego
David Muñoz | August 7, 2024 | Car Accidents
The Labor Day Weekend is the unofficial sendoff to the summer season. Schools and many workplaces in San Diego close for the holiday, allowing families to enjoy outdoor activities and short trips before everyone gets back to school for the new year ahead.
In response, many people enjoy taking road trips with their time off, making it one of the busiest times for roadway use. However, The National Safety Council reports that approximately 400 people die from motor vehicle accidents over the three-day weekend.
Whether you’re planning an interstate trip to visit family or are staying close to home to enjoy some of the many outdoor adventures available in the San Diego area, following the tips for road safety listed below will help ensure everyone makes it home safely.
Inspect Your Vehicle
Before you even leave your driveway, always prepare by making sure your car is safe. Simple things, like checking the oil and tire pressure and making sure windshield wipers work properly, can help you avoid an auto crash. If you’ve been putting off any auto repairs, get them completed before hitting the road.
Buckle Up
Follow all laws and regulations for safety restraints, especially when traffic is heavy. If you need assistance installing your child’s car seat, you can always schedule an appointment at a children’s hospital before your trip for assistance.
Don’t Exceed the Speed Limit
It’s tempting to drive fast when heavy traffic starts to clear up, especially if you’re worried about being late for a reservation. Nevertheless, driving at or slightly below the speed limit is recommended for high-traffic conditions. Pay special attention to pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcycle riders to help keep the roads safe for everyone.
Put Away Distractions
It’s best to have a co-pilot in charge of handling the GPS, changing music stations, and keeping the kids stocked up on snacks. One of the best ways a driver can protect their passengers is to simply pay attention to the road ahead.
Don’t Take a Chance With DUI
Celebrating is undoubtedly part of the holiday fun, but if you’re the family’s designated driver, it’s your responsibility to stay sober. Avoid all types of alcohol, marijuana, and any over-the-counter medications that could cause drowsiness. If you’re unable to do so, allow someone else who hasn’t participated to drive or schedule a pickup with a ride-sharing app like Lyft or Uber.
Never Leave Children or Pets In a Hot Car
It only takes about 30 minutes for the inside of a car to heat up to 114 degrees Fahrenheit when the outside temperature is 80 degrees. And in the San Diego area, Labor Day temperatures can be much higher. Get in the habit of always looking in the back seat before leaving your parked car. Children and pets can both suffer a life-threatening heat stroke if left in an overheated car.
Pull Over When Drowsy
If you’re having difficulty focusing on the road or find yourself zoning out while driving, you need a break. Driving while drowsy can be as dangerous as driving under the influence. And the risks are even greater on a road trip where long hours of driving are expected.
Take frequent breaks and share the driving responsibilities with another experienced driver to prevent falling asleep at the wheel.
Labor Day Road Safety
Properly preparing for a road trip will help the entire adventure go more smoothly. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and plan your route. If you obey traffic rules and don’t allow yourself to become distracted by a phone or other means, you’ll increase the safety and fun for everyone involved and enjoy the long weekend in style.
Contact a San Diego Car Accident Attorney at Mission Personal Injury Lawyers Today To Get More Information
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in San Diego or Chula Vista, please call Mission Personal Injury Lawyers for a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer or contact us online.
We proudly serve San Diego County and throughout California.
Mission Personal Injury Lawyers
2515 Camino del Rio S Suite 350, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 777-5555
24 Hours
Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – Chula Vista Office
690 Otay Lakes Rd #130, Chula Vista, CA 91910
(619) 722-3032
24 Hours
We also serve the state of Texas. Contact our personal injury law office in El Paso for legal assistance today.
Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – El Paso Office
201 E Main Suite 106, El Paso, Texas 79901
(915) 591-1000
24 Hours
