Busy holiday driving tips!

The holidays can be a very stressful time, imagine adding an accident in the middle of shopping on top of that. Here's a few tips on how to avoid a mid-errand fender bender.

During the season, people can be very impatient to get everything done on time. This can lead them to look through receipts while driving in parking lots, become drowsy at the wheel, check on coupons, map out the next store and just rush around. The best tip is to always drive for the other person: be very aware of your driving, as well as what others are doing or might do soon.

Drive slowly to give yourself enough time to react to a possible accident, especially when the ground is wet or snowy. The average adult can run about 6-11 MPH, imagine running that fast into a brick wall. It would definitely cause some damage. Just because parking lots and traffic areas are for slow driving, doesn't mean you can't cause serious damage to vehicles or people.

Also, be aware of speeding cars rushing around and cutting through parking lots and spots. It helps to not fight over parking spaces with other shoppers, too. This could lead to an accident, fight or vandalism of your car. The mall and shopping centers are a very popular area for young and inexperienced drivers. However, people may also try to be courteous and "wave you on" into traffic. Make sure it is entirely clear before exiting a lot or wait until the traffic has cleared. 

Additionally, be sure to take care of yourself as a pedestrian. Lock your doors after you get into your car, be wary of people who may be after your items and always check the car before getting into it. There is a surprising number of people who get robbed and/or kidnapped in parking lots, day or night. Parking in a well lit, possible security camera, area can ward off possible thieves, as well as hit and run accidents.

Make sure your mirrors are set for optimal visibility and your turn signals are always being used while turning. The holiday season is when it is dark, wet and cold most; so be aware of pedestrians, especially with small children. The kids might be very excited and sprint from adults they're with. Pedestrians have the right away!

Make sure all windows are clear!

Back up sensors aide with blind spots.

Try to avoid backing out of a spot whenever possible, it's best to be able to pull through. But, if you must back out of a spot, take care to look for those small children. If you feel unsure about backing out, try back up sensors for you car with possible camera attachment! Make sure all windows are clear before driving!

 

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 If you stick to the rules of the road and give a little extra time and patience during this season, you should have a less stressful holiday shopping experience! Remember, it's better to be late than dead.