When traveling for vacation, we are usually in a great mood. Excited for a week off work in a beautiful setting, we cannot wait to get out of the office and onto the road. Once the bags are packed and our gas tank is full, the open road is the only thing between us and our seaside retreat or cabin in the mountains. Unfortunately, in the haze of excitement to reach a vacation destination, people often make risky choices. Speeding, posting “road trip updates” on Facebook, and even drinking alcohol are common risk behaviors when driving to a vacation spot. Considering we have to be alive and well to truly enjoy our vacation, it is wise to utilize safe driving practices on the way there.
Fatal Accident Splits Car in Two
Recent tragic events serve as a devastating example of how deadly speeding can be. In March, California’s beautiful Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) was the scene of a fatal car accident involving two cars. The collision near La Jolla Canyon road was so violent that one of the vehicles literally split in two. In fact, law enforcement initially thought there were three vehicles involved. After further investigation, they determined that the “extra” wreckage was from the car that had split in half. According to witnesses, one of the cars was driving at excessive speeds when it lost control and swerved into oncoming traffic. That vehicle crashed head-on into another vehicle, killing three people inside. The PCH was shut down for hours following the accident.
Safe Driving Tips to Always Use
The good news is that speeding is entirely a choice. Tragic events like the story above are easily preventable. You have the right, the choice, and the responsibility to drive safely, and you owe it to yourself and everyone on the road to make the right choice. Below are some tips for safely reaching your vacation destination, every time:
- Use your cruise control
- Leave on time, or early
- Listen to calming music
- Remind yourself of the risks
- Don’t drink alcohol until you have safely reached your destination
- Don’t be distracted (texting, eating, or staring at your GPS)
- Drive defensively
Gladstein Law Firm, PLLC | A Kentucky Personal Injury Law Firm
You can be the safest driver on the road, but risks still exist. Other drivers may be drinking, texting, or speeding. Road conditions might be bad. If you have been injured in an accident, we can help. Seth Gladstein is a Louisville attorney who represents victims of all types of accidents, including car accidents. To arrange a time to speak with our legal team about your case, contact us today for a free consultation.