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The Holidays are an exciting time for everyone. With people traveling to see their loved ones, it can be especially joyous. Although it is a fun time, it also can be a time where accidents are on the rise. According to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle Department (FLHSMV) the holidays are a time where accidents are especially prominent, and we must remember to remain alert. 

“We would like to give you some tips to remain safe during the holiday season,” said Fort Myers Personal Injury Attorney Randall Spivey. 

Tips to Avoid a Florida Car Accident this Holiday

These are some tips from the FLHSMV and U.S. Department of Homeland Security to encourage safe travels during the 2024 holiday season: 

1. Check that your vehicle is in good condition. Check your vehicle for any alerts that need to be addressed before driving it a long distance. If you have low tire pressure, need an oil change, or any other issue, address it before getting behind the wheel as it can cause more damage if they are ignored. Make sure all necessary functions in your vehicle are working properly to prevent any issues when you are on the road. 
2. Set up an emergency roadside kit. Equip your car with an emergency roadside kit. By having a roadside emergency kit on hand, you can make sure you and your vehicle are safe in the off chance your car breaks down on the road. Make sure this kit has jumper cables, a reflective triangle, and flashlights. It is important to have these things on hand in case there is an emergency. 
3. Do not drive if you are drowsy. Make sure you are well rested. By being well rested, you avoid driving while drowsy, which can be as dangerous as driving under the influence. By driving drowsy, you are putting yourself, your passengers, and others on the road at risk. If you begin to feel tired, pull into the nearest rest stop, get a drink or some snacks, stretch, and rest before continuing your trip. 
4. Avoid distractions. Texting while driving, eating while driving, and handsfree phone calls while driving are all types of distracted driving. Any of these examples can impair your ability to focus on the road safely and can cause you to get in an accident. Have your passengers help you out if possible or safely pull over away from traffic and use your device if it is necessary. 
5. Do not drink and drive. Lastly, drive sober and be alert for others on the road. The holidays are always a time where there is an increase in drivers driving under the influence. There is almost double the percentage of drivers under the influence, which makes the roads unsafe. If you are driving, be safe on the roads and be sure to maintain distance and report it to local law enforcement if you see anyone you suspect is driving under the influence. If you have consumed alcohol, do not drive. Always ask a friend to drive you or call a rideshare service to make sure you arrive home safely. 

Safety Tips for Holiday Shopping in Parking Lots

The Florida Sheriff’s Association Parking Lot/Garage Safety Tips for Pedestrians: 

1. Park in areas that are well-lit and lock your car. Because of the potential for thefts in shopping mall parking lots and other large-scale parking lots, it is always recommended to park near a light. Always remember to lock your car doors as well. Roll all windows up and do not keep valuables in your vehicle.
2. Do not walk far. Park near the store front or near your destination.
3. Do not text or talk on the phone in the parking lot. Do not walk in the parking lot while you are distracted. Distractions include texting, emailing, talking on the phone, and wearing headphones. 
4. Walk in designated areas. Use the main walkways instead of weaving between cars in the parking lot. 
5. Do not linger in parking lots. When walking back to your car, have your keys ready to get into your car in your hands. Check the backseats of your car to make sure they are clear before you enter the car. Immediately lock the car once you are in and do not linger in the parking lot. 

It is also important to never stand behind a parked car, such as unloading the trunk in an airport, where another vehicle can run into you from the rear. There have been recent tragic accidents in Florida in which an innocent pedestrian is crushed between two vehicles when a negligent driver runs into the back of a parked vehicle and the person was standing behind the vehicle. 

Tips for Drivers to Keep Pedestrians Safe

During the holidays, stores are crowded with shoppers and there are many festive events that cause parking lots to be full. Each holiday, there are, unfortunately, crashes in parking lots and garages throughout Florida. The Florida Sheriff’s Association Parking Lot/Garage Safety Tips for Drivers provides:

1. Do not drive distracted. Do not text and drive or talk on your cell phone while in parking lots. It is essential to stay focused even if driving slowly in a parking lot because pedestrians are everywhere. 
2. Do not speed. Use caution in parking lots, and do not speed.
3. Stay in designated lanes. Do not weave across the parking lot to save time. It is important to stay in the designated lanes and to obey traffic signs in the parking lot.  Also, use your turn signals. 
4. Watch for pedestrians. Use caution and anticipate pedestrians. Watch out for children, strollers, shopping carts, and always use backing cameras and check carefully in the rear before backing. Look twice before backing up and do not assume the read is clear. Tragically, 9% of pedestrian deaths in parking lots occur because of backup incidents, according to the National Safety Council. 

Speak with a Skilled Fort Myers Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has been injured due to the negligence of others during this holiday season, please contact us at Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. after seeking medical attention. Fort Myers Pedestrian Accident Lawyer  and Personal Injury Attorney Randall Spivey and our team are ready to assist you in seeking justice. Do not deal with the insurance companies without legal representation. 

At Spivey Law, we are available 24/7, and there are no costs or attorney fees until we receive a monetary recovery for you. You can contact us at 239.337.7483, toll-free at 1.888.477.4839, or online at SpiveyLaw.com. We strive to provide personal contact and communication throughout the legal process along with aggressive representation.