7 Tips for Traveling Safe This Holiday Season

The holiday season is one of the busiest times of year for traveling. And, while it’s known to be the most wonderful time of the year, it’s also known to bring a sudden spike in drinking and driving. If you receive charges for DUI in Kansas or DWI in Missouri, you need a trusted DUI/DWI attorney.

We’ve said it before — more time on the road means more opportunities for traffic violations to happen. It tends to happen when you least expect it. You might show up to your office holiday party with full intentions of not drinking alcohol, but then something switches and you choose to take advantage of the spiked egg nog. Rather than getting a ride home, you decide it’s still ok to drive yourself. And, in a moment’s time, you suddenly find yourself facing an unexpected DUI/DWI charge.

At Kitchen Law Firm, we’ve seen these situations unfold numerous time in our 25 years of experience. If you or someone you know has been charged with DUI in Kansas or DWI in Missouri, our DUI/DWI attorney can help. Contact Kitchin Law Firm today to schedule your free consultation!

Safety Tips for Holiday Traveling

“If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Same goes for holiday traveling. To get you ready and equipped for all of those holiday traveling plans, we have a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Plan Ahead

Map out a plan and start with the basics.

Check your car maintenance checklist (at least twice). Tires, lights, windshield wipers, windshield wiper fluid — they all need to be up to par and in working order. If you’ve traveled in Missouri or Kansas, you know just how unpredictable the weather patterns can be, which is why it’s necessary to travel in a car that’s safe, reliable and capable of handling various types of wintry weather.

This brings us to our next point — always check the weather and plan the legs of your trip accordingly. Expect the unexpected and be ready if and when inclement weather happens.

Last point, if you know you’re going to be in a situation where there’s alcohol, decide what you’re doing ahead of time. If you choose to drink, secure a ride or place to stay before you get there. If you choose to be the designated driver, don’t compromise your role. Conversations had prior to the occasion can prevent running the risk of getting an unwanted DUI in Kansas or DWI in Missouri.

2. Make Rest a Priority

Believe it or not, sleep deprivation can impair your driving more than you realize. When gearing up for your road trip, it’s important to prioritize sleep. You’ll want to be as focused and attentive as possible, especially if there’s a sudden change in the weather. The moment you start to feel your concentration slip, pull over and take a break. It’s never worth putting you and your loved ones in danger of getting into an accident by trying to fight through the fatigue. Know your limits!

3. Have a Back-Up Plan

With as many DUI/DWI charges and other traffic violations we see during this time of year, one thing that rings true is that it never hurts to have a back-up plan. In case you or whoever the designated driver was supposed to be unexpectedly decides to join in and consume alcohol at the party or get together, having a back-up plan will only be used to your advantage and safety.

– Ask a friend or family member for a ride before you consume alcohol
– Download Uber or Lyft on your phone or be prepared to call a local taxi
– If conducive, arrange to stay at the place where the gathering is being held

4. Don’t Leave Room for Risk

If you’re a parent, you know that the last thing you want to do is put you and your family at risk. Consuming alcohol is ALWAYS a choice, and when it comes to putting others, along with yourself at risk — it’s just not worth it. Even if you’ve “limited” yourself to one or two drinks, it can still heighten your chances for a possible DUI/DWI charge. Take the necessary steps to avoid a first-time DUI in Missouri or DWI in Kansas.

5. Avoid Speeding Tickets

Believe it or not, but speeding tickets are something that happen quite frequently around the holidays. Surprised? We aren’t either. Depending on where you’re traveling to and from, there may be a series of checkpoints to ensure drivers are abiding by the laws that are in place. Quick tip: give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination to avoid having to rush to get there.

6. Keep Your Eyes on the Road

We’re living in a time where distracted driving has never been more prevalent. Smartphones serve a great purpose when it comes to communicating efficiently, and getting where you need to go with built-in navigation. But, they can also serve as a major distraction while operating a vehicle. Texting and scrolling on social media are the go-to’s, especially among younger drivers.

In Kansas and Missouri, there are laws that are enforced for texting and driving, and can lead to fines if violated. The moment your eyes leave the road, you immediately put you, your passengers and others on the road at risk. Best advice? Keep your eyes on the road — and know “it can wait.”

7. Enjoy Your Trip!

Last, but certainly not least — enjoy your trip!

By exercising these tips, you can help prevent potential setbacks, like DUI/DWI charges, speeding tickets or accidents. These precautionary steps also free you up to have some fun! Remember, the holidays are all about being together. Don’t let poor travel habits keep you from enjoying your time!

A Kansas City DWI Attorney You Can Trust

When the holidays don’t go as planned, Kitchin Law Firm is here to help. In need of an experienced DUI/DWI attorney to handle your charges? Contact us and find out how we can fight to protect your rights and your future.