Christmas holidays are usually a time to relax, catch up with old friends and attend lots of gatherings and parties. Unfortunately it’s during these joyous times that there is a rise in hazards and accidents. The most common type of accident during the holidays are motor vehicle accidents.
Whether you are staying home or travelling during the holiday season, safety should be the first consideration to ensure your holiday remains safe and enjoyable for you and your loved ones.
The increase in motor vehicle accidents during the holidays is primarily due to the increase of people driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol and bad weather conditions.
To reduce the risk of accident while driving during the holidays, we urge you to follow these tips:
- Do not use your phone while driving;
- Ensure you and every passenger in your car wears a seat belt;
- Be alert for pedestrians especially in busy crowded areas such as shopping centre car parks;
- Avoid driving when you are tired;
- Avoid driving during heavy wet weather conditions;
- During wet weather conditions, drive slower and allow more distance between your car and the cars ahead of you;
- Ensure your car is up-to-date with its service, the tires have plenty of tread and that your brakes are in safe working condition; and
- Do not drink and drive. Arrange a designated driver or an alternate way home from parties.