6 Thanksgiving Traveling Tips From Your Auto Accident Chiropractor in Tampa

During Thanksgiving weekend, about 515 people die every year due to auto accidents in the United States. Due to poor weather conditions and reckless driving, your risk of getting hurt in a car accident is that much higher. However, this shouldn’t prevent you from traveling this holiday season.

Instead, keep in mind these travel tips to avoid auto accident pain and have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

Tip #1: Get Your Car Checked Before Any Big Trip

Taking your car in early for a regular maintenance check-up can ensure nothing goes wrong on the road. Your mechanic will check your car’s brakes, fluids, tires, and battery, guaranteeing everything is working as it should. In turn, this can lower your risk of accidents due to stopping on a busy highway or due to something going wrong while driving.

Tip #2: Check Your Windshield Washer Fluid

Make sure you have washer fluid and that your windshield wipers are functioning as they should. Visibility is key when driving, especially if a rainstorm hits.

Tip #3: Wear Your Seatbelt

Surprisingly, many auto accident injuries and deaths are preventable, simply by wearing a seatbelt. This small thing can save your life, as well as prevent severe injury. Make sure everyone in the car is buckled up before you put it in drive!

Tip #4: Don’t Use Your Phone While Driving

In many states, using your cellphone while driving is illegal. Whether you’re texting or calling, the phone is a distraction, taking your attention away from the road and away from other drivers. It only takes a split second when your attention isn’t on the road for auto accidents to happen.

If you need to use your phone, pull over and park. Or have your passenger answer messages for you.

Tip #5: Take Extra Care When Driving At Night

Once the sun goes down, visibility drastically declines. If you can avoid it, try not to drive at night. However, we know that this is sometimes unavoidable. Instead, use extra caution at night and make sure you stop if you get tired.

Tip #6: Obey Traffic Signs and the Speed Limit

If there’s a stop sign, make a full stop. If the speed limit says 100 mph, don’t go 110 or 120. When it comes to safe driving, it’s all about following the rules. There is no power plays on the road. Focus on staying safe and obeying the law.

What Should You Do If An Auto Accident Occurs?

Even when taking all the precautions, car accidents can happen. When they do, make sure you know what to do. Call 911. Make sure you exchange your personal info and insurance info with the other drivers involved. Take pictures of the accident and make sure you take note of any witnesses. If you have injuries, seek out immediate medical attention. Lastly, make sure you report the incident to your insurance provider.

If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, your local Tampa auto injury chiropractor is here to help. At Tampa Spine and Wellness, we can help you make a full recovery after a car accident. Contact us today to start paving your way toward a pain-free life!