The holiday season is a time of joy, tradition, and togetherness. Whether it’s a road trip to visit family, a drive across town to a holiday party, or a last-minute dash to the store for gifts, millions of Americans take to the roads in December. Unfortunately, this time of year also brings a marked increase in car accidents, many of which are preventable.
At HGD Law Firm, we frequently witness the aftermath of these incidents. As a personal injury firm with 17 experienced attorneys and a 30-person support team, we’ve dedicated our work to helping people rebuild their lives after serious injuries. But the best-case scenario is always the one where no one gets hurt. That’s why we believe safety and prevention should be part of every holiday plan.
Here are a few important travel safety tips to keep in mind this season—because nothing should take precedence over your family’s well-being.
1. Plan Ahead—More Than Just Your Destination
One of the most common causes of holiday travel accidents is simply poor planning. Whether it's rushing to make it to dinner or underestimating traffic, haste often leads to poor decisions.
Tips:
- Map your route in advance and check for construction or weather delays.
- Build in extra time so you don’t feel pressured to speed or take risks.
- Let someone know your travel plans, especially if you’re driving long distances or through rural areas.
At HGD, we’re driven by a commitment to excellence—and that includes helping clients understand how a little preparation can make a major difference.
2. Don’t Drive Drowsy or Distracted
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that drowsy driving is responsible for over 90,000 crashes each year. During the holidays, with long travel hours and busy schedules, the risk only increases.
Avoid this by:
- Getting adequate rest before hitting the road.
- Rotating drivers on long trips.
- Avoiding distractions—this means no texting, no scrolling, and hands-free calls only if necessary.
Our firm has worked with families devastated by distracted driving accidents. These cases are often the most tragic because they’re the most preventable. A momentary glance at your phone isn't worth a lifetime of regret.
3. Watch the Weather—And Know Your Limits
Holiday travel often means navigating unpredictable winter weather—especially in our region. Rain, ice, fog, and even early darkness can drastically increase the chances of a collision.
Stay safe by:
- Checking weather reports before departure.
- Equipping your vehicle with emergency supplies like blankets, water, and a flashlight.
- Slowing down and increasing following distance when roads are slick or visibility is low.
There’s no shame in delaying a trip or pulling over until conditions improve. The right decision isn’t always the easiest—it’s the one that gets you home safely.
4. Be Extra Cautious at Intersections and During Lane Changes
Data shows that a significant portion of serious accidents happen at intersections or during lane merges. Add holiday congestion to the mix, and the risk only rises.
Best practices include:
- Coming to a complete stop at every stop sign and red light.
- Looking both ways—even when you have the right of way.
- Using turn signals early and checking mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.
Our attorneys have successfully represented clients injured due to careless or reckless drivers who failed to observe these basic rules. Defensive driving isn't just smart—it’s life-saving.
5. Avoid Alcohol if You’re Driving—Period
Holiday parties often involve alcohol, and while most people know they shouldn’t drink and drive, we continue to see impaired driving as one of the leading causes of serious crashes this time of year.
Stay responsible:
- Designate a driver or use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft.
- Host responsibly if you're the one throwing a party—offer non-alcoholic options and make sure no one drives under the influence.
- Speak up if you see someone trying to drive after drinking.
At HGD Law Firm, our core values include integrity and leadership. We believe that taking responsibility—for yourself and for others—is a mark of true respect, not only for the law but for every life on the road.
6. Know What to Do If an Accident Happens
Even with every precaution, accidents can still occur. If you find yourself involved in a collision this holiday season, here’s what to remember:
- Check for injuries and call 911 immediately.
- Move to safety if you can do so without risk.
- Document the scene with photos, and gather contact and insurance info from the other driver.
- Avoid admitting fault—even a simple “I’m sorry” can be used against you later.
- Call your attorney—especially if you or someone else is injured.
HGD Law Firm offers compassionate, client-first representation for injury victims. We handle everything from insurance negotiations to medical bills, so our clients can focus on healing.
Why Safety Matters to Us
At HGD Law Firm, we’ve built our practice around people. Our clients aren’t just case numbers—they're neighbors, families, and individuals with stories that matter. When someone walks through our doors after a serious accident, they’re often experiencing one of the most difficult moments of their life. That’s when our values—Client-Centered, Integrity Driven, Respectful, Committed, Leadership Oriented, and Excellence Focused (CIRCLE)—truly come to life.
Our 17 attorneys and 30-member support team work tirelessly to provide white-glove service and deliver the best possible outcomes for every client. But if we could offer one message this season, it’s this: take safety seriously. There’s no shortcut worth your life. And if the worst happens, know that we’re here to stand beside you, to fight for you, and to help you move forward.
Final Thoughts
This holiday season, the best gift you can give your loved ones is your presence—and that means arriving safely. As you celebrate the season, take a few extra moments to plan ahead, drive carefully, and look out for others on the road.
And if you or someone you love is injured due to another driver’s negligence, HGD Law Firm is just a phone call away. We’re here to serve with integrity, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice—this season and all year long.
