The holiday season is magical everywhere in New York, but that magic doesn’t extend to crowded roads and insanely busy airports. People flood in from out of town to visit relatives, shop and enjoy the beautiful decorations. Combine unsure visiting drivers with too aggressive or distracted local drivers, add a pinch of holiday party drinking and you have a recipe for disaster.
Airline Travel
Flying will be a nightmare. Security will be tighter than ever and lines will be longer. Be prepared.
- Arrive at the airport at least three hours before your flight. Don’t rely on the old “arrive one hour early” rule. That won’t be nearly long enough.
- Check the TSA website for the latest information on what you can and can’t bring on the flight.
- Wrapped gifts aren’t allowed so plan on wrapping at your destination.
Defensive Driving is More Important than Ever During the Holidays
Airline travel is frustrating and annoying but seldom dangerous. The odds of being seriously injured in a car accident are far greater, especially during the holidays. It’s impossible to change the behavior of other drivers, so expect irrational and dangerous behavior from others. Driving in New York around the holidays can be a “hope for the best, but be prepared for the worst” scenario. Drive defensively.
- Stay sharply focused on driving. Pay attention to everything on the road and check mirrors frequently.
- Watch for cars that are slowing down, speeding up or driving aggressively, especially near intersections or highway exits. Be prepared for that driver who speeds up and cuts you off.
- Don’t get involved in a road rage or possible drunk driver situation. Stay as far away as possible and report it when safe to do so.
- Avoid being trapped by other vehicles. Whenever possible, position your car so you have an escape route in an emergency.
- Don’t forget it takes longer to stop on snow or ice. On dry roads it takes about 316 feet for a car or pickup to stop. A semi needs at least 525 feet. In bad weather, stopping distance increases significantly.
Levine And Wiss extends best wishes for a safe and happy holiday. However, if you’ve been injured in a car accident, our experienced New York accident attorneys can help seek the compensation you deserve.
