New Year’s Day is the second most deadly day for drivers, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).  We know YOU would never drink and drive, but if you’re planning on going out this holiday weekend, we want to do our part to help keep you safe. So, before you get behind the wheel this New Year’s, we encourage you to keep these LOF-Xpress™ approved safe driving tips in mind!

  1. Buckle up. Always wear your seatbelt while driving –it’s the law. Remind your passengers to wear theirs as well. This device will help keep you protected and secure in case of an accident or collision.
  2. Get noticed. Turn on your headlights and take advantage of your turn signals. This helps alert other drivers and pedestrians know you’re nearby and what you’re planning to do. If you need to send a message to surrounding traffic, do so early and clearly.
  3. Drive defensively and be aware. Make the assumption that any motorist, no matter how steady their driving, might take an action that puts you at risk at any time. As you’re driving, think about what could go and develop a response plan.
  4. Keep your distance. Put as much distance as possible between you and all other moving vehicles. If possible, position yourself so that there isn’t another vehicle in the lane next to yours. This will ensure that you have time and room to maneuver in the event of an emergency.
  5. Take it easy. If you encounter an erratic or aggressive driver, slow down to put even more space between the two of you.
  6. Report it. If you have a passenger with you, ask them to dial 911 and tell the operator a dangerous driver is in the area. We discourage the personal use of a cell phone while driving. If you are without a passenger to make a call, depending on your whereabouts, you might consider stopping to make the call and report the driver.
  7. If you have been drinking, do not drive — not even a short distance. We might be stating the obvious here, but if you do drink, be sure to call a taxi, phone a sober friend or family member, use public transportation or use a transportation network service such as Uber or Lyft. You can also try NHTSA’s SaferRide mobile app, which allows users to call a taxi or a friend by identifying their location so they can be picked up.
  8. Get your tires and brakes checked. No one wants to think it could happen, but it’s always best to be prepared. Making sure your vehicle is functioning properly is the best and easiest way to ensure that you remain safe, should your evening end with a collision. We at LOF-Xpress™ would like to do our part. Stop in and see us for a quick service prior to heading out.

Driving is dangerous this time of year, so if you can’t avoid it and plan on being on the road, protect yourself and your passengers with safe driving. We love our customers and want to help keep you safe! For more helpful driving tips, visit us! To better serve you, we’ll be open on New Year’s Eve until 5pm.

Wishing you a fun and SAFE New Year!