Tips for Staying Safe During Holiday Travel
With the holidays nearly upon us, and many of us missing out on seeing family for the holidays in 2020, travelers will be hitting the roads across the nation in droves this year. Increased traffic means additional accidents, but proper preparation can help protect you and your property.
How To Prepare for Your Holiday Travels
1. Prepare at home.
Tell your neighbors that you are traveling and ask them to keep an eye on your home while you’re gone. You want your house to look lived in, so ask someone to collect your mail or contact USPS to hold deliveries during your trip. Consider adding a timer to lights in your home as well. Start this holiday season by keeping your property safe.
2. Prepare your vehicle.
You will want to have your car inspected – or inspect it yourself – and be sure to update your car emergency kit with jumper cables, flares, a flashlight, jack, and a spare tire. Remember to check your first aid kit and pack a blanket and warm clothing in case you have an emergency in severely cold weather. You do not want to be stuck on the side of the road instead of gathering with family for the holidays!
3. Prepare for the climate.
If you are traveling to a colder climate than what you are used to, prepare for the weather. Refresh your skills for driving in snow or ice. Keep basic safety tips for extreme weather in mind:
Leave plenty of space between vehicles.
Do not be in a rush – leave time in your schedule for driving delays.
If possible, wait until roads have been cleared before driving in ice or snow.
Legal Considerations if You Are in a Car Wreck
Preparation is a key factor in preventing car wrecks, but even the most conscientious traveler can become a victim.
If you or your family are injured in an accident, follow these steps to protect your rights and health:
1. File a report
Even if the wreck seems minor, filing a report is a wise way to document the event. If you subsequently need to pursue legal action, an official report can play a huge part in a successful case.
2. Get Medical Attention
Your health is what matters most! Call 911 to get medical help right away, and if injuries manifest later you should seek out treatment right away. It may be necessary to have a medical expert explain your injuries to a jury – if you have not sought treatment, the insurance company will absolutely use that fact against you. Also, if the initial treatment concludes with directives to follow-up with the same or other providers, do so! Again, insurers will use any failure to follow instructions against you.
3. Get Detailed Information
Before leaving the scene, speak to the other driver and exchange insurance information. Make a note of the make and model of their vehicle along with their license plate number. Ask to see their license and compare the image to the person you are facing.
4. Take Pictures
A visual representation of what happened will better allow a jury to understand the wreck if you find yourself in court. Do not post any information about the accident on social media. Insurance agencies often begin there when looking for evidence about your case.
5. Contact Your Insurance Company
Whether or not you were at fault, contact your insurance company promptly. Many policies require reporting within a brief time frame for you to maintain certain benefits.
6. Contact Legal Representation
The insurance companies will absolutely have reached out to their lawyers on retainer. If you are denied compensation or have other claims to pursue, secure legal representation as quickly as possible. We will walk you through the necessary steps to ensure the best possible outcome. As always, the initial consultation is always free and our fees are always taken at the time we recover for you.
Enjoy Stress-Free Holiday Travels
Don’t let a car wreck get in the way of spending time with family and friends this holiday season. Ensure stress-free holidays by being prepared.
If you should have the misfortune of being involved in a car wreck, rest assured that Lazenby Law Group is here to safeguard your rights. We will fight for justice in every case. So enjoy your holidays, and know that Lazenby Law Group will be here if you need us. Contact us at any time; we will respond within 24 hours.
