The holidays bring extra cars, long lines, and tired drivers to roads across South Carolina. Florence sits where I-95 and I-20 meet, so many families pass through our area every year. A little planning can lower your chances of being part of one of the many car accidents that happen this time of year.
Hurt in a crash? Do not wait. Call (803) 599-2207 or send our online contact form today.
Prepare Your Vehicle Before You Hit the Road
A car that breaks down on a busy highway puts you and other drivers at risk. A quick check a few days before your trip can catch small problems early. Try to do it before the busiest travel days, such as the days right before Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Here are the parts of your vehicle to check before a long drive:
- Tires: Check the air pressure and look for worn tread. Tread is the pattern on a tire that grips the road.
- Brakes: Listen for squealing or grinding, and have them checked if the pedal feels soft.
- Lights: Make sure your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals all work.
- Wipers: Replace worn blades so you can see clearly in the rain.
- Fluids: Check your oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid.
- Battery: Have it tested if it is more than a few years old, since cold weather can drain a weak battery.
- Emergency kit: Pack a flashlight, phone charger, water, a blanket, and a first aid kit.
Taking care of these items now can save you a stressful stop on the side of the road. If something looks worn or feels wrong, have a mechanic look at it before you leave.
Understand the Risks on South Carolina Roads
Holiday weeks are some of the busiest times on the road. More drivers mean less space between cars, and small mistakes can lead to big crashes. Rear-end crashes, where one car hits the back of another, are common in slow and stop-and-go traffic.
Holiday parties and gatherings also mean more drivers who may have been drinking. Long trips can leave drivers worn out, too. Knowing these risks can help you stay alert and ready.
Avoid Distracted, Drowsy, and Impaired Driving
Distracted driving means doing anything that takes your eyes, hands, or mind off the road. At highway speed, a two-second look at your phone means your car travels nearly 200 feet. Put your phone away, set your map before you leave, and ask a passenger to help with calls or texts.
Drowsy driving can be very dangerous. Signs include yawning, drifting between lanes, and missing exits. If you notice these, pull over at a safe rest area and take a break or switch drivers.
Never drive after drinking alcohol or using any drug that makes you sleepy or slows your reaction time. Plan for a sober driver or use a ride service. If you are hosting a party, help your guests find a safe way home.
Drive Carefully in Rain, Fog, and Heavy Traffic
Winter weather in South Carolina can bring rain, fog, and sometimes ice. Slow down and leave extra space between you and the car ahead. A good rule is to stay at least three seconds behind, and add more time when the road is wet.
Hydroplaning happens when your tires ride on a thin layer of water instead of gripping the road. If it happens, ease off the gas and steer gently. Do not slam on the brakes.
In fog, use your low beam headlights. High beams bounce off the fog and make it harder to see the road.
Keep Kids and Passengers Safe
Everyone in the car should buckle up on every trip, no matter how short. Children should ride in a car seat or booster seat that fits their age, height, and weight. Check the label on the seat and your car's owner manual to make sure it is installed correctly.
Plan a stop about every two hours so kids and drivers can stretch. Pack snacks, water, and quiet activities. This helps keep the driver focused on the road instead of on restless passengers.
What to Do If You Are in a Crash
Even careful drivers can be hit by someone else. If a crash happens, these steps can protect your health and your options later:
- Check yourself and others for injuries, and call 911 right away.
- Move to a safe spot if the cars can be moved, and turn on your hazard lights.
- Wait for the police and ask how to get a copy of the crash report, which is the written record of what happened.
- Take photos of the vehicles, the road, and any injuries.
- Trade names, phone numbers, and insurance information with the other driver.
- Write down the names and phone numbers of any witnesses.
- See a doctor soon, even if you feel fine, because some injuries do not show up for days.
Try not to argue about who caused the crash at the scene. Share the facts with the police and let them do their job.
Know Your Rights and Time Limits After a Crash
After a crash, an insurance company may call you quickly and ask for a recorded statement. You can take time to think and ask questions first. A Florence personal injury attorney can explain your rights and what steps may come next.
South Carolina also has a time limit for filing a lawsuit, called the statute of limitations. For many injury claims it is three years, but other rules can apply. Waiting too long could limit your options.
Fault matters, too. In South Carolina, a person found more than half at fault for a crash may not be able to recover money. This is general information, not legal advice for your situation.
Stay Safe From Car Accidents and Know When to Call a Florence Personal Injury Attorney
Holiday travel does not have to be stressful. Prepare your vehicle, stay alert, and slow down so you can enjoy time with the people you love. Even with careful planning, car accidents can still happen.
If you or someone you love is hurt, a Florence personal injury attorney at Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC can listen and explain your options. Call (803) 599-2207 or reach out through our online contact form. Safe travels this holiday season.