The roads tend to be more dangerous around the holidays, and those in Hawaii are no exception. Even though motorists on the islands don’t have to worry about snow or ice, they must contend with heavy rain, drunk drivers, and other holiday hazards. Fortunately, you can reduce the risk of getting into a car accident by following a few simple safety tips this time of year. 

3 Driving Tips for Staying Safe Over the Holidays

1. Designate a Driver

If you plan on going out drinking with friends or family, designate a driver before the festivities begin. If you’re hosting a holiday party where there will be alcohol, make sure you can accommodate guests who need a place to spend the night.

2. Eliminate Distractions 

Distracted driving is dangerous, and doing so in heavy holiday traffic only increases the risk of getting into a car accident. Whenever you’re behind the wheel, avoid falling victim to manual, visual, or cognitive distractions like texting, turning around to talk to the kids in the backseat, and making phone calls. Even with a hands-free device, conversations can take your focus off the road ahead.

3. Avoid Driving While Drowsy

It’s common for people to run on less sleep than usual when family members come to town or they’re busy hosting parties. Driving while drowsy can be just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated, though. Sleep deprivation affects the body in much the same way that alcohol does, inhibiting both coordination and cognitive functioning. Try to catch your Z’s at night, but if you’re feeling sleepy on the road, pull over to a safe, visible area to nap until you feel awake enough to get home safely.

Although the above tips can help keep you safe, some circumstances will always be out of your control. If you end up in a car accident despite your best efforts, turn to Basic Auto Collision Team. Located in Honolulu, this auto body shop prioritizes customer service above all else, so you can rely on them for reliable repairs with fast turnaround times and competitive rates. They specialize in repairing luxury vehicles, and since they use an innovative digital scanner to evaluate vehicles, they can identify existing problems and potential issues with accuracy. Check out their website to explore their services, or call (808) 842-3966 to make an appointment.