This Labor Day Weekend 2017 is shaping up to be one of the busiest on the roads.  We can look forward to soul-crushing traffic, as the kids scream murder in the back seat. Last year saw records broken when it came to cars on the road and they are expecting the same this year. More than 34 million people will drive more than 50 miles to celebrate over this year’s three-day Labor Day hullabaloo, according to AAA. (The organization expects to rescue more than 330,000 drivers from lockouts, flat tires, and other roadside pickles.)  Want to learn more about traffic and how to handle it, take our on line class. You may be heading out of town this end of summer holiday and there are a few things to keep in mind.  Here is a quick list I put together to help you navigate this Labor Day weekend.

1. Try not to drive at dawn:  Studies show that many accidents happen very early in the morning.   People usually drive tired when they set off that early.  They are fighting their circadian rythm.  Tired driving is distracted driving and studies show it can be just as bad as drunk driving.
2. SLOW DOWN! People are often in a rush to get where they are going.  Speeding is also a leading cause of accidents.  Speeding doesn’t usually help people arrive their destination faster, sometimes just the hospital.
3. Pack the Car with essentials! On a long trip during these dog days of summer it is essential to have lots of clean cool drinking water, snacks, toys for kids and a First Aide Kit.  These things will help you stay hydrated, less hungry and keep younger passengers entertained and keep everyone’s stress levels down.
4. Car Maintenance:  It is very important before embarking on a long trip (or short trip) to make sure that your car is in tip top shape.  Make sure that you are gassed up, tires at the right pressure, headlights working and clean and any other maintenance that needs to be done.  The last thing you want to find out into your trip is that you all of a sudden need road side assistance that could have been avoided.
5. Keep Your Cool:  Getting stuck in traffic or listening to the dreaded “Are we there yet?” can be stressful and anxiety provoking.  It is important not to let stress and anger take the wheel.  Bring distractions for younger passengers or play a car game like I spy or the License Plate game.  Make sure to bring relaxing music and take a break if you need to.  Scheduled rest stops can decrease stress for everyone.

So when you’re heading out there this weekend remember this 5 tips! Don’t become a holiday fatality and as always DRIVE SAFE!