Whether you’re from here, or you are up visiting for the holiday, all drivers are asked to be safe out there as our roadways will be packed with long-weekend, Memorial Day vacationers.
Our Portland car accidents attorneys are asking you to take a few precautionary steps to make sure that your holiday travel runs smoothly. We’re here with officials from the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) to offer you some tips to make sure that your vehicle is ready for the haul. Avoiding breakdowns is one of the most beneficial ways to prevent a roadside accident.Here are some reminder tips for a safe trip:
-Take a look under your hood and make sure that all of the fluid levels are topped off. This includes your windshield wiper fluid, brake fluid, coolant and oil.
-Make sure that all of your tires are properly inflated and that the tread is not too worn.
-Before heading out, it’s a good idea to check the www.511maine.gov website for the latest travel conditions. Plan out your route before starting up the car. It will help you to stay off of busy roadways.
-Are there any repairs you’ve been putting off?sNow is the time to do it. Don’t take the chance.
-Check your blinkers, taillights, headlights and side marker lights. You want other vehicles to know where you’re going and when you’re going there. Predictability is a good way to help to prevent an accident.
-Are your windshield wipers working efficiently?s
-Have you packed your vehicle so that your visibility is not hindered?sIf your luggage is stored on the roof, make sure it’s secure.
The Memorial Day holiday weekend is not only the kick off to our summer travel season, but it’s also one of the most dangerous weekends to be behind the wheel. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), there will be more than 405 people who will be killed on our roadways during this holiday weekend. Officials also predict that nearly 44,000 people will be injured in traffic accidents during this time.
One of the most important things that you can do to help protect yourself is to buckle up during each and every car ride. Seat belts are your best bet against the risk of injury or death in the event of a traffic accident. Make sure everyone in your vehicle is buckled in every time.
Consider this your reminder to get your vehicle checked out, make sure you’re ready for anything the roadway as to throw your way, you’re prepared for the traffic and congested conditions and you plan for your trip in advance. Preparation is the best way to help eliminate your risks for an accident. Stay safe out there and enjoy the holiday weekend.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a vehicle accident, contact us at 1-800-804-2004 for a confidential consultation to discuss your rights.
More Blog Entries:
Maine Texting Ban May Not Be Well-Enforced, Report Says, Maine Injury Lawyer Blog, May 12, 2013
Maine Pedestrian Accidents a Spring and Summer Risk, Maine Injury Lawyer Blog, April 15, 2013