To ensure a safe holiday season, travelers know that they must subscribe to safe driving habits. But not all drivers understand this, and law enforcement has known this for years. Because some drivers take risks that endanger others and themselves every holiday season, authorities remain extra vigilant during this time.
In Kentucky, this means extra patrols by law enforcement, cracking down on unsafe drivers who may speed, drink and drive and turn to distractions behind the wheel. These additional officers should bring some assurance to drivers, knowing that safety is the priority. Now, what are some of those safe driving practices?
Safe speeds and avoiding distractions
With more drivers expected on Kentucky roads this holiday season compared with last year, there are better chances to see an uptick in questionable and illegal driving behavior. Always be on the alert and follow traffic laws.
Please follow these rules to ensure safe travels during the holiday season:
- Use your seatbelt: Buckling up keeps you safe inside your vehicle, limiting the chance of being ejected after a crash. The latter scenario almost always is deadly. Seatbelts save lives and represent solid protection from impaired and aggressive drivers.
- Drive at safe speeds: For decades, speeding has contributed to one-third of U.S. fatalities. Doing so increases the risk of a crash, endangering drivers, passengers and other motorists.
- Avoid drinking and driving: The likelihood that more people will drink and drive grows higher during the holidays. Do your best to steer clear of these dangerous drivers. However, even the best defensive driving practices may not protect you.
- Avoid distracted driving: You often spot these drivers because they travel slowly or veer into the next traffic lane. In the past 20 years, the presence of cellphones has greatly contributed to this problem. Among the “newer” types of distractions: drivers watching movies when their cell phones are situated on the dashboard.
Safe practices minimize the chances of a road crash that may lead to tragic consequences.
Safe holidays, safe driving
The holiday season is a time to see family and friends and celebrate. Go ahead and travel the Kentucky roads to see them but do so by following traffic laws and use common sense to ensure safe travels.
