New Year’s is a popular holiday for traveling to special events and parties, which means there will be more people on the road late into the night. Furthermore, this holiday sees an increase in drug- and alcohol-related crashes. To have a safe holiday and avoid a trip to the body shop for collision repair, there are a few tips to keep in mind when you get behind the wheel.

How to Drive Safely on New Year’s

1. Winterize Your Vehicle

New Year’s celebrations usually mean winter weather conditions. Before attempting to drive anywhere in the cold months, make sure your car is in top shape. Inflate tires properly. For most vehicles, this is between 30 and 35 psi. Also, check for tread wear or potential leaks. Ensure your antifreeze levels are correct and replace wiper blades so snow and ice can easily be removed during a storm.

2. Adjust for Weather

When driving in snow, rain, or icy conditions, adjust how you handle your vehicle. Do not rush to get to your destination, and keep a safe driving distance between you and other cars—about eight to ten seconds versus the normal three to four. If there are slippery road conditions, do not wait for the last minute to brake since your brakes may not catch as easily as they usually do on dry ground.

3. Designate a Driver

If your party or event involves alcohol, designate a driver who will be in charge of getting everyone home safely. Even a couple of drinks can be enough to interfere with your reaction time on the road, which can put you and others at risk for an accident.

4. Be Mindful of Intoxicated Drivers

While you can’t control what others do, you can find ways to avoid a collision with a drunk driver. If you see someone weaving between lanes or driving aggressively, they may be intoxicated. Drunk drivers may also drive on the wrong side of the road or blow through stop signs. Keep as far from them as you can and call the police to report them so no one gets hurt.

5. Don’t Drive at All

When in doubt, don’t drive. If you feel as if you have had too much to drink or you are too tired to get behind the wheel safely, call a taxi or rideshare to get you and your companions home.

If you need collision repair in the Lincoln, NE, area, head over to Tracy’s Collision Center. For nearly 50 years, the body shop has helped drivers with damage to their vehicle—from minor dent repair to major overhauls. Their professional technicians have the knowledge and expertise to get your car or truck back on the road quickly. Call the body shop at (402) 441-4820 for an appointment or visit their website for helpful driving tips.