The holidays are officially upon us and that means a lot of exciting festivities, gatherings, shopping, and road trips to visit our loved ones. That also means an increase in vehicles on the road and, unfortunately, a higher risk of getting into a car accident. Whether you drive the latest model or you’ve found a great deal on a used truck for sale, now is the perfect time to read up on driving tips to keep you and your family safe on the road in Evansville.
1. Check your vehicle maintenance list twice
First and foremost, be sure that your vehicle has gone through the proper maintenance checks, especially if you’re driving a used car. Responsibly used car dealerships like Edge Auto Sports do their best to make sure the vehicle is in great condition before listing them for sale. If you’ve recently purchased a vehicle from us, we offer an extended warranty to cover any repairs, depending on the vehicle.
Before you head out on that road trip, have an oil change done, test all lights, check your tire pressure, make sure your windshield wipers are working properly, and that all fluids are topped off for the drive ahead.
2. Secure your vehicle
While the holidays are supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, unfortunately, it’s also peak season for car theft and break-ins. Criminals are in search of expensive gifts left in vehicles and will do anything to get to them, including smashing windows and breaking through car doors. The last thing you want to deal with during the holiday season is to find your car has been broken into.
Keep valuables hidden and gifts in the trunk and make sure all doors are locked. We recommend installing an alarm system for added security.
3. Pack an emergency kit
Weather and traffic conditions are unpredictable during this time of year. You hear of extreme traffic jams, drivers stuck in gridlock for hours at a time, and large snowstorms that keep vehicles stranded. Prepare for the worst-case scenario by packing an emergency kit with:
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Blankets
- An extra set of clothes
- Non-perishable snacks
- Water
- An extra phone charger
4. Leave 10 minutes early
The holidays can be a busy time for many with last-minute shopping, cooking, cleaning, and an endless list of to-dos. Give yourself enough time to get to your destination and leave 10 minutes early so you’re not rushing and speeding on the road. And remember, your loved ones would rather you arrive late to a party than not at all because of a horrific accident.
5. Please, drive responsibly
Be merry and enjoy yourself but please, if you drink, don’t drive. Leave your vehicle at the location, call a Taxi or an Uber, or call a friend or family member to get you home safely. If you know you’re going to drink, we recommend giving your car keys to a friend or family member so they’re not accessible to you. The consequences of driving while impaired are never worth it.
From all of us here at Edge Auto Sports, we hope you have a safe and Happy Holidays! We thank you for your continued support and look forward to serving you in 2023 and beyond.
If you do not see your model in stock, please contact our team. Check out our available used vehicle inventory here.