Three Safety Tips For Traveling Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day Weekend maybe full of fun and the sun, but according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, it is also one of the biggest weekends for auto accidents.

As visitors travel from across the state, I-26 and Charleston area bridges are expected to fill with vehicles headed to Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, Sullivan’s Island, and other popular locations. Here are a few tips to stay safe on the road during Memorial Day weekend:

1. Inspect your vehicle . . . even your tires!

If you’re planning to travel a long way, have your vehicle serviced first. Get your oil changed and tires inflated and/or rotated, and change the air filter, if needed. Check to make sure headlights, windshield wipers, brakes, and tires are all in good condition. If your car isn’t safe to operate, especially over long distances, you should consider another travel option.  

2. Avoid traffic when it snarls.

Friday afternoon will undoubtedly be the worst time for travel. Try to leave early, before rush hour hits and after-work traffic meets holiday traffic. Make sure your vehicle is packed and secure, and all your passengers are ready to go to avoid last-minute emergencies.  If you are planning to leave your travel destination Monday afternoon, try to depart before 3 p.m. to avoid return-trip traffic.

3. Stay focused and wear a seatbelt!

While these tips may be helpful in preventing an accident this weekend, even the safest drivers can be victims. Drive defensively, never text, and always wear a seatbelt. If you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by a negligent driver, seek medical attention immediately.

If you or your loved one is injured in a car accident this summer, call our experienced lawyers at 843-720-2800. We represent clients throughout the Charleston, South Carolina area.