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Plan Ahead to Ensure A Safe Holiday Driving Season

19 December 2000

Plan Ahead to Ensure A Safe Holiday Driving Season; Transportation Secretary Calls for Caution on North Carolina Roadways

     RALEIGH, N.C., Dec. 19 Transportation Secretary David
McCoy and other highway safety leaders across the state are calling for
caution on North Carolina roadways this holiday season to reduce the number of
traffic-related injuries and fatalities.
    "The joyous holiday season can quickly turn to tragedy when families are
faced with the terrible consequences of motor vehicle crashes," McCoy said.
"Whether you're traveling across town or across the state, please remember to
buckle up everyone in your vehicle, and never drive after drinking."
    Last year in North Carolina, nine people were killed and 874 were injured
during the three-day Christmas travel period.  An additional nine people were
killed and 1,029 were injured during the four-day New Year's travel period.
    Joe Parker, director of the Governor's Highway Safety Program, placed
special attention on getting children buckled up to help protect them from the
high number of crashes during the holiday season.
    "Buckling up children is important throughout the entire year, and
especially when statistics show a higher likeliness of crashes, such as during
the Christmas and New Year's holidays," Parker said.  "Failure to properly
restrain your children is not only a dangerous chance to take, it will cause
you to get two points added to your driver's license if you are stopped and
cited by a law enforcement officer."
    Parker also offered the following safety tips for winter travel:

    * Maintain your car: Check battery and tire tread, keep your windows
      clear, put no-freeze fluid in the washer reservoir, and check your
      antifreeze.
    * Have on hand: Flashlight and batteries, jumper cables, abrasive material
      (such as sand or kitty litter), shovel, snow brush and ice scraper,
      warning devices (like flares or reflective devices) and blankets. For
      longer trips, add food and water, medication and a cellular phone.
    * Stopped or stalled: Stay with your car, don't over exert, put bright
      markers on antenna or windows and shine dome light.  If you run your
      car, clear exhaust pipe and run it just enough to stay warm.
    * Plan your route: Allow plenty of time (check weather reports and leave
      early if necessary), be familiar with maps or directions, and let others
      know your route and planned arrival time.
    * Avoid drowsy driving: Get a good night's sleep before a long trip,
      schedule regular stops, drive with a companion and avoid alcohol and
      medications.