More than 53 million Americans are expected to travel by car this holiday season, says AAA – the highest since 2005. That’s great for reconnecting with friends and family, but all that high traffic volume contributes not only to congestion but to a reduction in speeds as well. Because millions of motorists will be sharing the road with large trucks over the next couple weeks, truck drivers and motorists in smaller vehicles have to be extra diligent about keeping themselves and others safe.

There are many additional challenges to traveling over the holiday and winter season, including low visibility, high winds, blowing snow and freezing temperatures. It’s important for truckers and motorists to perform a thorough pre-trip inspection and make sure they understand the driving conditions for the day before setting out.

Here are some reminders for motorists about important elements of safe driving, including how you should safely operate a small passenger vehicle near a large tractor-trailer.

Safety Tips

  • Always wear your seat belt. Seat belts may not prevent accidents but they can save your life.
  • Scrape ice and snow off your vehicle before driving. Don’t forget the roof! When you leave snow and ice on your car, you’re creating a hazard for those behind you.
  • Keep it slow and steady. Did you know your chance of getting in a crash almost triples when you’re driving faster than surrounding traffic?
  • Don’t drive impaired. Think of driving as a great responsibility and remember that your fellow travelers are depending on you to be a safe, attentive driver. If you follow these rules, we can all share the road respectfully.
  • Be aware of truck blind spots and stay out of them. Usually blind spots on trucks are much smaller on the left, so pass on that side.
  • Avoid distractions. Distracted driving is a top cause of traffic accidents and a top cause of death in teens. If you take your eyes off the road for just two seconds, you double your chances of getting in an accident. Don’t text while driving. Pull over if you have to.
  • Don’t cut in front of large trucks. It takes those heavy trucks a lot longer to slow down than it does for you. In fact, a fully loaded tractor-trailer often takes the length of a football field to come to a complete stop.
  • Prepare for long-distance travel. Before going on a holiday road trip this year, check your wipers and top off your fluids, making sure you have recently had your radiator and cooling system serviced. Simple maintenance like this can prevent problems that could strand you when you least expect it. As for you, make sure you get plenty of rest before the trip and stay hydrated. Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving.
  • Set out early. This will your reduce anxiety about getting to your destination late, allowing you to take your time and not rush. You never know when road conditions and traffic patterns will change en route.
  • Leave extra room between you and the vehicle ahead of you.

From Taylor Oil to all of our valued clients: we wish you a safe, happy and healthy holiday and new year! And if you need to schedule an appointment for mobile fueling, just contact us today.