Sleigh the Road: 5 Tips for Navigating Holiday Traffic Safely

The holiday season is finally here! It’s a time for festive lights, family gatherings, and unfortunately, some of the busiest roads of the year. Between the rush to finish gift shopping and traveling to visit loved ones, winter driving conditions can make things tricky.

At Jerry’s Collision Center, we love being part of this community, and frankly, we’d prefer to see you waving at us from the road rather than rolling into our shop. To help keep your sleigh safe this season, here are our top tips for holiday driving.

Winter-Proof Your Vehicle

Before you head over the river and through the woods, make sure your vehicle is ready for the drop in temperature.

Check your tires: Ensure you have adequate tread depth for gripping slippery roads.
Lights: With days getting shorter, make sure your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are all shining bright.
Fluids: Top off your windshield washer fluid with a de-icing formula.

The “3-Second” Rule Becomes the “6-Second” Rule

In normal conditions, leaving three seconds of distance between you and the car ahead is standard. However, if roads are wet, icy, or covered in snow, double that distance. Giving yourself extra room is the easiest way to prevent a rear-end collision if traffic suddenly stops.

Watch for the “Distracted Shopper”

Parking lots are high-risk zones right now. People are looking for spaces, checking their shopping lists, or dealing with kids in the back seat. Drive slowly, use your turn signals early, and always assume pedestrians don’t see you.

Prepare an Emergency Kit

It’s better to have it and not need it. Throw a blanket, a flashlight, some water, and jumper cables in your trunk. If you do get stuck or break down, staying warm and visible is priority number one.

We’re Here if You Need Us

We hope your holidays are filled with joy and zero accidents. But if the weather gets the best of you, or a patch of ice sends you sliding, remember that Jerry’s Collision Center is here to help. We handle the repairs and the insurance paperwork so you can get back to celebrating.

Drive safe and Happy Holidays!