Holiday Hazard- Driving in Unfamiliar Areas

Driving in Unfamiliar Areas for the Holidays? Drive them Safely!

Are you visiting family out of town for the Holidays?  Most likely, you want to avoid this Griswold family crash. Driving in unfamiliar areas can be hazardous. You may not know the terrain, the weather or the streets. 
  * Make sure you limit the distractions. It is just plain stupid to text and drive. It is even more so if you are driving on unfamiliar roads. Many of us have made those drives with kids fighting in the back seat and people arguing over what is on the radio. But it is so important to stay alert and engaged while driving in new places.
   * Know the traffic laws. Do your research before you leave. Some towns have roundabouts, bizarre junctions and different road signs that you are not used to. Know the speed limits as well.
   * Get to know your environment. Will there be icy bridges? Cattle in the streets? Depending on where you go, the environment, including the weather, will dictate how you drive. Take is slower if you are at all unsure of your surroundings. 
   * Have a map, in case your phone's maps app doesn't work. If you haven't spent time in the mountains before, I can tell you - cell reception can dicey.  
   If you get lost, always remember to:
Avoid sudden changes in direction. I would also avoid any illegal manuevers, such as a u-turn on an unfamiliar road. 
Signal your intentions. This will let other drivers know your intentions. 
Reduce your speed. This will give you more time to identify and respond to unexpected obstacles like fallen debris, potholes and curves in the road.    

   Make sure to add a extra time to your driving plans.  There is nothing more frustrating than getting lost when you are already late! Take that anxiety and it just adds to the hazard of driving in unfamiliar areas!
   Take your auto insurance with you. Even if you are driving a Rental. If you buy the Rental company's insurance, it will cover any mishap you may have. But that rental insurance can be costly. Your own personal insurance will cover your rental should anything happen, but it will count on your accident history. It is up if you want the Rental Insurance. 

*As always, contact us with any questions or concerns you have for your Home, Auto, Boat or Commercial insurance!    the Brockman Agency

Nancy Brockman