People across the country see Memorial Day Weekend as the kick-off to summer. However, driving throughout this weekend can be extremely dangerous. In fact, there are on average 400 accident fatalities each year. Continue reading to learn about how you can keep yourself safe when driving on California roads this Memorial Day Weekend.
If you were in a car accident because of a driver’s negligent actions during Memorial Day Weekend, contact the injury attorneys at Setareh Law. We will launch a thorough investigation into your case and work to hold the responsible driver accountable for their actions.
Check Your Tires Before a Road Trip
Before embarking on a road trip, ensure that your vehicle’s tires are in good condition. If you are unsure if you have enough air in your tires, find a local air pressure station. Most gas stations have them. All tires are different, but mechanics recommend pressure ranges between 30 and 35 pounds per square inch (PSI).
Additionally, you should check each tire’s tread. The best way to do this is through the penny test. To do this, place a penny with Lincoln’s head upside down in one of the tread grooves. If part of Lincoln’s head is covered, you have enough tread to drive safely. If it is not covered, your tread is low, and you need new tires.
Plan Out Your Road Trip in Advance
If you are going on a road trip, make sure you map out the trip in advance. Familiarize yourself with the route before beginning, especially if you have not used specific exits or highway stretches before. Without advanced planning, you may miss an exit or put yourself in danger by exiting the highway hastily.
Planning out your road trip also includes choosing the best time to travel. California roads are busy most of the day, and there will be even more congestion during Memorial Day Weekend. If your times are flexible, consider leaving in non-peak hours to avoid rush-hour traffic.
Use Caution When Driving on California Roads
Many people make the poor decision to drink and drive, so you must be more cautious when driving throughout the holiday weekend. Watch out for drivers who are swerving between lanes or stopping suddenly. Additionally, intersections are among the most common places for an accident to occur, regardless of if the other driver is drunk. With more vehicles on the road than usual and the increased likelihood of a drunk driver, always be alert. Check your surroundings thoroughly before entering a roadway or merging lanes. Wearing your seatbelt may also save your life if you are in a crash.
Stay Sober Behind the Wheel
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal in California. Not only that, but alcohol has a dangerous effect on your body. You have a slower reaction time, decreased vision, and lack of control over your body, all of which can increase your risk of being in an auto accident. Additionally, California police recognize that many people drink and drive during Memorial Day Weekend. Officers arrested 854 people last year, so you can be confident they are on high alert. Stay sober or establish a designated driver.
Experienced Car Accident Attorneys in California
Even though you take every step to keep yourself and passengers safe, other drivers may not do the same. If you were in a crash because of a negligent driver, you have the right to pursue compensation for your medical bills, property damage costs, and other accident-related expenses. However, obtaining a fair settlement may be hard to do, so you may want to hire a California auto accident attorney.
At Setareh Law, our attorneys are passionate about representing accident victims, and we have a proven record of success in getting out clients the compensation they deserve. Let us handle the day-to-day aspects of your case while you focus on your recovery. Call (310) 659-1826 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation.