Each May, with summer just around the corner, we get a 3-day weekend to enjoy family barbecues, pool parties, and community observance events. In other words, Memorial Day Weekend is an excellent opportunity to eat, drink, and be merry.
However, the downside to this weekend of celebration is the spike in the number of intoxicated drivers cruising our roads and highways. In fact, Memorial Day is often considered the most dangerous holiday for drivers, and the number of traffic deaths in Austin has been rising in recent years.
Defense attorney Stephen Stewart has spent [decades] representing car accident victims, so he knows a thing or two about safety on the road. That’s why he’s put together this quick list of tips to stay safe this Memorial Day weekend.
If you follow these 20tips, you can make sure you’ll get home from that barbecue safe and sound.
Be prepared
You’d be surprised how many car accidents could have been avoided with a little preparation. Follow these tips to plan ahead to make your Memorial Day celebrations that much safer.
- Double-check the weather and plan your driving route in advance
- Make sure your car is in working order (tire pressure, gas, etc.)
- Pack a small first aid kit in your car
- Allow extra travel time and avoid speeding
- Assign a designated driver or call a rideshare service if you plan on drinking
Safety first
Whether it’s you behind the wheel, a friend, or a taxi or rideshare driver, here are a few tips to make sure you’re always putting your safety first.
- Drive defensively and don’t use cruise control
- Keep two cars’ length between your car and the car in front of you
- Follow the speed limit and come to a complete stop at stop signs and traffic lights
- Don’t drive home if you’re tired
- Don’t accept rides from intoxicated people
- Only use approved taxi services and prearranged rideshare drivers
- If you ever feel unsafe with your driver (designated or rideshare) ask them to pull over immediately
Don’t drink and drive
Although it should go without saying, don’t get behind the wheel if you’re drunk, high, or intoxicated in any way. Even if you’re just buzzed, remember: buzzed driving is drunk driving.
- Review state alcohol laws before taking the first swig
- Establish a drinking limit while you’re still sober
- Ask a friend to help you stick to your limit
- Make sure to eat before starting to drink
- Pace yourself by taking food and water breaks
- Avoid binge drinking
- Always keep an eye on your drink to prevent tampering
- Don’t drink from open beverage sources
Hire a car accident attorney in Austin today
We hope that these 20 tips can get you where you’re going this Memorial Day and back again safely. However, if you are injured by a driver, drunk or otherwise, you’ll need an experienced car accident attorney to represent you.
At The Stewart Law Firm, PLLC, our experienced legal team can investigate your case, develop your claim, collect evidence, and help you get compensation or a verdict that will help you recover physically and financially. Don’t hesitate to contact us and schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
