Tips for Staying Safe on the Roads this Festive Season

The festive season is here! While many are celebrating, we know a number of people will still be hard at work during this busy time of year. Whether you’re commuting to your job, making deliveries, or running errands, the busy roads can be more dangerous than usual. With a bit of preparation and mindfulness, we can all help to keep ourselves and others safe. 

Road Safety Statistics to Keep in Mind 

• The festive season often sees a spike in road accidents – December and January are among the worst months for road fatalities. 

• Driver fatigue is a factor in up to 20% of fatal road accidents. 

• Speeding, alcohol, and distractions like mobile phones remain leading causes of crashes. 

Even if your festive season involves more work than rest, these road safety tips can help you stay safe: 

1. Plan Your Trips Ahead of Time

Avoid added stress by planning your route and allowing plenty of time to reach your destination. Ensure you check traffic and weather conditions before heading out. 

2. Take Regular Breaks

Long hours behind the wheel can lead to fatigue, which slows your reaction times and increases the risk of accidents. Stop every two hours for a quick break to stretch and recharge. 

3. Don’t Drive Under the Influence

If you plan to celebrate after a shift, arrange for a designated driver, taxi, or rideshare. Driving under the influence is not worth the risk. 

4. Stay Focused

Avoid distractions such as texting, eating, or fiddling with the radio. Place your phone on ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode while driving. 

5. Stick to the Speed Limit

Speeding reduces your ability to react to unexpected situations and increases the severity of crashes. Follow speed limits and adjust your speed to suit the road and weather conditions. 

6. Secure Your Load

If your work involves carrying equipment or goods, ensure everything is secured. Loose items can become dangerous projectiles in an accident. 

7. Be Patient and Courteous

Holiday traffic can test anyone’s patience, but aggressive driving only increases risks. Stay calm, give yourself extra time, and share the road respectfully. 

Stay Safe and Keep Moving Forward 

This festive season, let’s prioritize safety on the roads, even if our schedules are packed. Your choices on the road don’t just affect you – they affect everyone around you. With a little effort, we can help make this busy season safer for everyone. 

From our team, we wish you a safe end to the year!