Work zones can be extremely hazardous, especially when reckless drivers fail to take caution and slow down while in a work zone. In an effort to reduce serious accidents during the holiday season, VDOT suspended highway work zones over Christmas. Hopefully, this will reduce traffic congestion and reduce the likelihood of major accidents.
VDOT says that it hopes to limit congestion and provide as many travel lanes as possible. To do so, VDOT will lift lane closures on interstates and other major roads from noon December 24 to noon December 26. Closures will also be lifted from noon December 31 to noon January 1 for the New Year’s Day holiday period.
Last year, AAA estimated that between December 21 and January 1, 2013, 94.5 million travelers would hit the road. This year is likely to be no different. After all, more drivers on the road means more accidents, and more chances for a driver or passenger to suffer serious personal injury.
Thus, it should come as no surprise that Christmas consistently rank among holidays that have the highest accident rates of the year. A 2014 report by the National Safety Council estimates that over the three or four days during this Christmas day holiday period, 366 deaths and another 39,200 injuries requiring medical attention may occur because of car crashes.
Even though the Christmas season can be a wonderful time to get together with family, our firm encourages all motorists to drive safely during the next few weeks. The NSC has listed the following tips that our firm recommends to stay safe:
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Buckle up every trip, every time – even when traveling short distances
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Refrain from using electronic devices – including hands-free – behind the wheel
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Secure children in size-appropriate restraints
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Do not drink and drive, as impairment begins with the first drink – if you drink, designate a sober driver or take alternate transportation
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Plan ahead and drive defensively, especially during bad weather
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Never drive when you are tired – get plenty of sleep before your trip and plan regular stops