According to study recently released by the National Coalition for Safer Roads Memorial Day weekend is the most dangerous holiday for road and highway accidents. The study correlates an especially high amount of drivers running red-lights over the holiday weekend.
Drivers are likely eager to get away for the long weekend and/or are frustrated with the additional roadway congestion. Driving more aggressively and having a car accident, is not how to remedy your frustration with traffic.
The research reports over 2.3 million drivers in 18 states ran red-lights over the holiday weekend last year. Those numbers result in 1.2 red-light violations every second of the weekend.
The number of drivers who ran a red-light is more than 27% higher than compared to the average holiday weekend. The most frequent traffic light violations occurring on Friday beginning the Memorial Day weekend.
Southern States Insurance compiled roadway safety tips for you to make a habit, but especially put into action over the upcoming holiday.
Roadway Safety Tips for Memorial Day Weekend Travelers
- Allow extra travel time.– It is more important to arrive at your destination safely, than to arrive at your desired time. Don’t push traffic lights and speed to make it to your destination early. Expect increased traffic and understand it may take longer to reach your destination on the holiday.
- Get out of your vehicle and stretch.– Moving your legs and walking every couple of hours will help you stay alert on the roads. We suggest even parking at a parking spot further away when you take a break, so you have to walk a little farther distance.
- Understand the times of highest risk.– The greatest risk is on Friday afternoon, as people are getting off work and are ready to enjoy the weekend. During these times, be prepared as the sun will be setting and travelers will be tired from the day’s labor. Be sure not to block the roadway with your visor, bring a snack as you will likely be hungry and that can also contribute to stress levels.
Our Insurance Company Wishes You a Happy Memorial Day Weekend and Urges You To Drive Safely
It is too sad to hear about accidents happening, especially when they can be avoided. We want everyone to be aware of the great risk that exists this weekend and plan accordingly.