A few tips to stay safe on the road during Memorial Day weekend.

Looking forward to Memorial Day? Warm weather, sunny skies, and a three-day weekend are in the near future for many as the holiday draws near. Unfortunately, traffic jams and auto accidents are also guaranteed to occur over the Memorial Day weekend. As out-of-towners travel in from across the state, I-26 and Charleston area bridges are expected to be packed 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.

If you’re planning on traveling a long way, have your vehicle serviced before you hit the road. Get your oil changed and tires inflated and/or rotated, and change the air filter, if needed. Check to make sure your 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.

Friday afternoon will undoubtedly be the worst time for travel. If you are able, 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 on leaving your travel destination Monday afternoon, try to leave before 3:00 PM to avoid return-trip traffic.

Be aware of the traffic laws in the cities and counties you will be driving through. Be sure to obey all traffic signs and signals, and keep your seat belt buckled while the vehicle is in motion. Watch for sudden changes in road conditions, speed limit signs, and lane closures. Minimize distractions by turning off your cell phone and setting your GPS coordinates BEFORE you get on the road. Keep a safe distance from vehicles in front of you, and watch out for aggressive or distracted drivers.

While these tips may be helpful in preventing an accident this weekend, even the safest drivers can be victims of those who refuse to obey the law. If you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by a negligent driver, seek medical attention immediately. For help understanding your legal rights and options for filing a personal injury claim, contact a Charleston car accident attorney as soon as possible. The experienced legal team at Steinberg Law Firm is standing by to help you get the justice you deserve. Call 843-720-2800 today for a free consultation.