Hawaii may not have the snow and icy roads that other states experience, but winter on the islands still presents factors that can impair driver safety, like traffic and inclement weather. Driving with extra caution during this time of year can reduce the likelihood of car accidents and unexpected auto repair needs. Here are three driving tips to follow during the holidays.

3 Holiday Driving Safety Tips

1. Give Yourself Extra Time

With increased traffic and pedestrian activity, you can count on drives taking longer than usual. That’s why leaving earlier is always a good idea, whether you’re commuting to work, driving to the beach, or headed to a holiday luau. This head start can prevent you from feeling rushed and stressed behind the wheel—feelings that can contribute to speeding, road rage, and other dangerous driving habits. 

2. Load With Care

When a Christmas tree isn’t loaded properly, it may fall off a car’s roof and damage others on the road. If you want to avoid being liable for related auto repairs, use durable straps to secure the tree to the roof. Align the tree so it extends down the middle of the roof from front to back. This placement will help prevent handling issues.

Also, take care not to overpack the trunk with presents, as they may end up obstructing your vision. To minimize visibility problems, evenly distribute packages in the car so they don’t block the rear window.

3. Never Drink Without a Designated Driver

Between long Christmas dinners and late New Year’s Eve celebrations, it’s easy to overlook alcohol consumption over the holidays. However, driving under the influence of alcohol will impair your reaction time and judgments behind the wheel. In addition to putting lives in danger, operating a vehicle while intoxicated can land you with an OVUII, a charge that may result in license revocation and fines.

If you want to stay safe and protect others, never drive drunk. When you plan on drinking, arrange for someone else to serve as a designated driver.

This holiday season, Starkey’s Auto Repair will make sure your vehicle is free of safety concerns. Providing everything from routine brake service to major engine repairs, their ASE®-certified technicians will keep your vehicle in top shape. For more details on their auto repair and maintenance services, visit this Honolulu, HI, car care center online or call (808) 427-3185.