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Memorial Day Travel Safety

 

 Waving American Flag.

 

Many Americans are planning to travel during the upcoming holiday weekend. A recent survey by Travelocity stated that nearly 80% of surveyed adults who said they plan to travel on Memorial Day, plan to travel by car. 2 An article by AAA states that due to the low gas prices we have seen this year, more than a third of Americans plans to take a family vacation of 50 miles or more from home this year.1

 

The following are good reminders as you prepare to take to the road during the Memorial Day travel weekend.

 

  • Buckle your safety belt – it’s the best way to stay safe in a vehicle and remember, the national Click It or Ticket program is in full swing over the holiday weekend

 

  • Put down the cell phone – nearly 10 people are killed and over 1,000 injured every day in crashes involving distracted drivers – don’t text and drive! 3

 

  • Don’t drink and drive – even one alcoholic drink can reduce your abilities and impair your judgment

 

  • Be prepared – take a map, atlas, or GPS device; make sure your spare tire is inflated and you know how to change it; have your car serviced before heading out; include an emergency kit with water and snacks in case you’re stranded for more than a few hours; refuel BEFORE your gas warning indicator displays

 

  • Turn down the music – hearing sirens and emergency vehicles is an important warning to slow down and drive cautiously - you may be approaching an accident scene

 

  • Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel – eating, looking for CDs, and digging for things in the floorboard or back seat can lead to trouble

 

  • Get plenty of rest – make sure you’re well rested before getting behind the wheel, rotate driving duties with others in the car to avoid becoming too sleepy or distracted

 

  • Take frequent breaks – stop, get out of the vehicle, and stretch your legs often

 

  • Be courteous - because of the volume of vehicles on the road, you’re bound to run into a few traffic jams, be cut off, or be forced to stop short - remain calm and courteous - don’t let other drivers ruin your holiday

 

Travel safely and enjoy your Memorial Day weekend!

 

Sheriff Aubry D. Cook

 

 

1newsroom.aaa.com – More Than One-third of Americans Will Take a Family Vacation This Year (4.21.16)

2travelocity.mediaroom.com – Survey Finds Majority of Memorial Day Travelers Plan to Travel by Car This Year (5.3.16)

3www.cdc.gov – Distracted Driving