When you frequently travel by car, the holidays are bound to bring about a few extra concerns as a driver. There are some reports that estimate that as many as 95 million drivers will make trips through the holidays at the end of the year. All of this extra congestion can making traveling at this time of year not just frustrating, but dangerous as well. To make sure that your holiday trip is as safe as possible, there are a few tips that you should keep in mind before you set out on your holiday journey.

1. Travel on lower-traffic days.

There are some days that are always going to be heavier vehicle travel days around the holidays and accidents will be more likely to occur on these days. For example, the few days before Christmas are usually days when there will be many people setting out on a road trip to see family and even the day after Christmas will leave the roadways super busy. Try to travel on different days if you can to avoid this heavy traffic, and even switch up your driving schedule so you are only on the road during lower-traffic times, such as overnight or super early in the morning.

2. Get familiar with alternate routes.

The main roads in and around cities will usually be the busiest throughout the holiday season. Do what you can to steer clear of main interstates and highways and take a few minutes before your trip to look for alternate routes that may be available. Taking side roads that are a little off the beaten path can keep you out of heavily congested areas where accidents would be more likely to occur. Even if you have to add a few extra miles onto the trip, it can still be worth it to avoid heavy-traffic areas.

3. Be on the lookout for dangerous drivers.

People leaving parties after having one too many glasses of champagne or a little too much eggnog through the holidays is not unheard of. As you travel back home after holiday gatherings, stay alert to drivers who are acting suspiciously. Whether they are hugging the yellow line too closely for comfort or seem to be distracted with slowed reaction times, it is a good idea to distance yourself from drivers that appear to be under the influence and call the authorities if you spot someone acting crazy. 

If you do get into an accident, contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible. 

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