Goshen County Sheriff

We have listed some helpful holiday road trip safety tips to help get you to and from your family gatherings safely.

Check on Conditions (Weather and Road)
At this time of year, the weather can be unpredictable. Even if the weather and roads look okay in your neighborhood, that may not be the case 200 miles away. Be sure to check the Federal Highway Administration's website for up-to-the-minute traffic information, detours and road construction before you leave. You may also want to check The Weather Channel's website to find out the weather conditions of the interstates and roads you will be traveling on. 

Pack Some Supplies
Depending on where your holiday travels are taking you, you may encounter snow or even blizzard-like conditions along the way. That is why it is a good idea to pack an emergency snow kit, which should include a snow scraper and brush, a flashlight, blankets, booster cables, a shovel, cat litter or sand (to place under your tires for grip, if you get stuck in ice or snow), flares, emergency triangles, and a first aid kit. While you may never have to use these items, you will be happy you packed them in the event of an emergency.

Winterize Your Car
The last thing you want to do is break down and end up missing Mom's famous pumpkin pie all because you failed to have your car winterized. So make sure to have a certified mechanic check your oil level, tire pressure, windshield wipers, heater, defroster, antifreeze, and brakes, before you head out on icy and snowy roads.

Keep Your Cell Phone Nearby
You never know what could happen during your travels, so it is always a good idea to bring your cell phone and car charger with you. If you do not have a cell phone, consider purchasing a prepaid cell phone that you can add minutes to. In the event that you do need to use your cell phone, leave the calling to one of your passengers or pull off to the side of the road to make the call.

Wear Your Seat Belt
That is why the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is reminding all of us to play it safe this holiday season and buckle up - not only is it the law; it could help save your life.

Take Your Time
The heaviest holiday travel traffic occurs during the days immediately before and after  Christmas and New Year's Day. With that in mind, consider traveling early to your destination allowing extra time to arrive at your destination.

Don't Rush
Speeding is never a good idea, especially during the holidays. Obey the speed limits and you will get to your family's house in plenty of time to enjoy the holiday festivities.

Don't Eat Too Much
There will probably be enough food to go around for seconds, thirds...but, for safer holiday driving, perhaps pass on fourths. Over indulging in holiday treats can make you feel uncomfortable and groggy for the ride home; not to mention that turkey has a natural sedative called L-tryptophan which can make you sleepy. If you have a long journey ahead, consider cutting back on the turkey and maybe have a cup of coffee or a caffeinated soda to help perk you up for the trip home.

Never Drink and Drive
if you suspect that a driver has had too much to drink, contact the local authorities immediately. In addition, if you or a loved one has had too much to drink, call a cab or stay at a friend or relatives house - it will be one of the best decisions you will ever make.

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