Safe Driving Tips for the Upcoming Holiday Season

It is hard to believe it, but the holiday season is right around the corner. With Thanksgiving coming up it’s the kick-off to the season, and that means more people out and about on the roads. Whether driving for holiday shopping, visiting family and friends, or attending dinners and parties, there are usually a lot more people out on the roads during this time of year. So it’s a great time to remember a few safe driving tips to help you and others while out on the road. If you’d like to to make your holiday season a little safer, here are 5 tips for you to consider. 

1) Mind the Weather

If you find yourself driving in rain or snow, it’s important for you to make adjustments to the weather conditions. It may take longer for you to get stopped, it may be easier to hydroplane or lose traction, and you will need to adjust your stopping distance appropriately as well. How your car handles the specific weather conditions you’re in can vary depending on things like the weight of your vehicle, your tires, etc. So, you can’t just adjust to the speed of traffic, you must adjust to your specific vehicle. You also want to take into account that other drivers may not be making these adjustments, which makes it all the more important that you do.

2) Watch Your Speed

We may be more excited about our destinations this time of the year, but don’t let that get you in a rush. The impact of a car crash is exponentially worse when it occurs at higher speeds. Speed limits are set based on road conditions like curves, and blind driveways. Just because you are capable of maneuvering the roads at a higher speed does not mean that it is safe to do so. So, respect the speed limit, keep yourself and others safe, and avoided a ticket, too.

3) Be Disciplined – No Distractions

Again, it is a more exciting time of the year, and that can make it even harder to stay focused when driving. But distracted driving is extremely dangerous and can be deadly. It only takes a moment of having your eyes off the road to cause an accident. It is not worth risking your life or the lives of others. So, be disciplined and don’t just avoid texting and driving, don’t let eating, adjusting the radio, or talking to your passengers become a distraction either.

4) Drive Defensively

It is easy to assume that other drivers will follow the rules of the road as well as you do, but that is not always the case. Sometimes people forget to signal, fail to yield, or don’t stop when you have the right of way. If you always have a plan for what to do if the other guy isn’t paying attention, you’re much more likely to be able to make an evasive maneuver or avoid a collision. Defensive driving also means being aware of your surroundings, keeping a safe distance between you and the car in front of you, watching your blind spot, and staying out of other people’s blind spots. The more you look out for yourself, the more personal control you have to avoid a collision.

5) Remember - It is OR not AND!

As always, we cannot fail to remind our readers that if you’re going to drink, don’t drive. If you are going to drive, don’t drink. Drink OR drive - it is or not and. If you choose to drink, use a designated driver, or get an Uber, but don’t take a chance getting behind the wheel when you are under the influence.

At Gibbons Law Firm, we look forward to the holiday season and all the joy it brings. We want you to have a happy time with your friends and family, and safe travels on the roads as well. As personal injury attorneys at Lake of the Ozarks we know how devastating car accidents can be, and we want to do anything we can to help people avoid them. If you or someone you know has been injured in a serious car accident because of someone else’s negligence, it is important that they have legal guidance to know what their rights are, and where they stand. If they are entitled to compensation, they deserve someone that is going to fight for them and be with them every step of the way to get it. Keep in mind that we offer free consultations at our law firm in Lake Ozark and we generally take personal injury cases in Central Missouri on a contingency basis so you do not have to have money in order for us to fight your case. Give us a call at our law office in Lake Ozark to schedule an appointment, and be sure to follow us on social media using the links below if you’d like to hear more tips and legal information from Gibbons Law Firm. 

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

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Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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Safety Tips for Labor Day Weekend

After a fun and busy summer at Lake of the Ozarks, many people are looking forward to this Labor Day weekend. Some are looking forward to their last long weekend before the end of summer, and others are looking forward to a little bit slower pace as we move into fall. But either way it’s a celebratory weekend for most of us here at Lake of the Ozarks. It also is a weekend that can see a greater number of accidents and injuries. At Gibbons Law Firm, our personal injury attorneys at Lake of the Ozarks know how a personal injury can severely limit a person's life, and we are always looking for ways to prevent tragedies when possible. So, this week's blog will include a few safety tips for you to keep in mind this holiday weekend. If you’d like to celebrate to the fullest but also in the safest way possible, we think you will find these tips to be helpful.

Fireworks Safety

The Lake of the Ozarks is well known for its fireworks celebrations - especially on holiday weekends. If you or the people you will be hanging out with over the weekend are planning on shooting fireworks, be sure it’s being done safely. Of course, you want to only shoot fireworks in an area away from people, houses, cars, trees etc., and on a hard flat surface where they are not prone to falling over. It’s important to never put any part of your body over the fireworks while or after being lit, and it is also smart to wear safety glasses. The people and property around you are depending on you to be safe, so have water or fire extinguisher ready and be diligent. Last but not least, the person who is planning on doing the fireworks should also plan on abstaining from alcohol, or waiting till after the fireworks are done.

photo credit: Fun Lake MO

Driving Safely

Holiday weekends often result in more accidents, probably for a number of reasons. We know that there will be more people on the road, and that many of them will be excited about traveling to their destination for a fun weekend. That could mean they are a little more distracted. Holiday weekends also usually means celebrating, and many people do that with alcohol. So, the chances of being on the road with people who may have been drinking can be higher on a holiday weekend. Here in the Ozarks you’re likely to have more visitors on a holiday weekend as well which means people who are not as familiar with the roads. As we know, here in the Ozarks there are areas that have no shoulders and a lot of blind curves and hills. So, it’s important to watch your speeds, keep a good distance between you and the car in front of you, drive defensively, avoid distractions, and of course, do not drink and drive.

Safe Boating and Swimming

No doubt there will be a lot of people boating and swimming this weekend, and a lot of traffic out on the water. Here at the lake, there is usually a pretty wide variety of boats, as well as a range of experience when it comes to their captains. That can make navigating traffic and waves very challenging. Unexpected things can happen, and that is why it’s always recommended to wear your life jacket and make sure everyone in the boat does as well. When you go swimming, go with a buddy, not alone. If you head out for the day or for a long distance, keep an eye on the weather. You should know what’s on the radar before you commit to a long boat trip especially on a holiday weekend. As always, we are reminded of the many ways alcohol can impair your judgment, your reaction time, your coordination, and more. It is inadvisable to agree to captain a boat if you’ve been drinking. You are responsible for your safety and that of those around you, and no one is celebrating this holiday weekend with the intent or idea of getting hurt or hurting someone else. One of the easiest ways to avoid a tragedy is to be responsible with your drinking, no matter the context or circumstances.

photo credit: Fun Lake MO

At Gibbons Law Firm, we have seen people‘s lives absolutely devastated because of bad decisions, and also because of the negligence of others. We don’t like to see that happen to anyone. We are here to help you if you’ve been seriously injured at the Lake of the Ozarks, and we would like to help everyone to prevent injuries. We hope you appreciated this blog and keep these simple tips in mind as you’re enjoying this holiday weekend. If you’d like to hear more tips and helpful legal information from our Lake Ozark law firm, we have links below for you to follow on social media. Have a safe and happy Labor Day Weekend!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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Staying Safe This Holiday Weekend

At Gibbons Law Firm, we look forward to the upcoming holiday as a way to honor our fallen heroes. We deeply appreciate the sacrifices that have been made defending our freedoms. We also know that this holiday weekend is a time when many families gather together to celebrate, make memories and have fun. Unfortunately, the holiday weekend historically brings some safety hazards along with those festivities. So, this week's blog is dedicated to sharing three things to consider as you are enjoying this holiday weekend at the Lake of the Ozarks. If you want some helpful hints on how to stay safe as you celebrate, just keep reading this blog.

Fireworks

Many people will be celebrating with fireworks over the holiday, so we want to remind you of a few safety tips to avoid any emergencies or injuries. Of course fireworks should only be used under close adult supervision. It is a good idea to wear protective eyewear, and never allow any part of your body to be over the fireworks while lighting. It’s important to place fireworks on a hard flat surface away from people, houses, cars, trees, etc. You also want to have water or a fire extinguisher ready just in case. Keep in mind that your safety and the safety of others around you is dependent on your diligence. We all know that drinking alcohol can affect your judgment, your reaction time, your coordination, and more. So whoever is in charge of shooting the fireworks should wait until afterwards before they indulge.

Swimming and Boating

It’s hard to resist the urge to get out on the water during the first major holiday weekend of the year.  That means there may be a lot more boat traffic, as well as people who haven’t been boating for several months. Be sure to follow the rules on the water, keep a safe distance from other boaters and paddlers, and always wear your life jacket (and make sure everyone else does, too). Use the buddy system, and don’t go swimming alone. Don’t forget to check the radar before you head out. You don’t want to get stuck out in the middle of the lake during a lightning storm. Once again, understand the effects of alcohol on your body and your judgment, and don’t accept the responsibility of being the captain of the boat if you’ve been drinking.

photo credit: Fun Lake MO

Traveling

It only makes sense that there will be more people on the roads this weekend as well. There is the potential that a percentage of them will be drinking or distracted, excited to get to their destination, looking forward to the weekend, and thinking about anything but they’re driving. So look out for yourself, again keep a safe distance, avoid distractions, give yourself plenty of time so you don’t feel tempted to speed, and avoid drinking and driving. Not only do you want to be sober so you are not a hazard to someone else, you actually need to be more diligent this weekend because, unfortunately, statistics indicate that there likely will be more drivers under the influence driving on a holiday weekend like Memorial Day.

Gibbons Law Firm Cares

We have represented numerous people who have suffered serious personal injuries because of someone else’s negligence. Negligence doesn’t have to be intentional, but it is often preventable. So we wanted to share some of these safety hazards with you as you prepare for your holiday weekend. Obviously, there is a common theme when it comes to being responsible with alcohol consumption. Nobody wants to have a tragedy result from a desire to celebrate and have fun. But unfortunately it happens, and when it does, it can permanently change a person’s life for the worse. If you or someone you love has suffered a personal injury at Lake of the Ozarks due to someone else’s negligence, Gibbons Law Firm wants you to know that your initial consultation is free. Our mid-Missouri personal injury attorneys can work with you, help you understand your rights and legal options you may have to seek compensation. Call our Lake Ozark law firm today. Be sure to use the link below to follow us on social media and stay up-to-date with the latest tips and information from our personal injury lawyers in central Missouri.

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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7 Tips for Staying Safe on the Roads During the Holiday Season

As we are approaching the holiday season, more people will be out on the roads traveling to see family or to take care of holiday errands.  As personal injury attorneys at the Lake of the Ozarks, we know how devastating car accidents can be. At Gibbons Law Firm,  we want the 2021 holiday season to be a safe and festive time for you, so we thought we would share a few tips with you to stay safer on the roads as you are traveling.  If you are interested in ways to stay safe this holiday season, keep reading this blog! 

1) Plan Ahead and Slow Down

It is so easy to get into a rush during this time of the year, but it is just not worth it.  Plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time in case you run into construction or other delays.  Avoid the urge to speed as it can not only increase your chances of being in an accident, it can cause the damage from an accident to be exponentially worse.

2) Look Around

It is important to always pay attention when driving. Sometimes you even have to pay attention for the other drivers on the road.  Be aware of your surroundings including blind spots, what’s behind you, and even what's on the sides of the road. Remember to stay out of other drivers’ blind spots as well. 

3) Defensive Driving

Just because you have the right of way does not necessarily mean the other driver knows or will respect that.  So, while you are paying attention and looking around, be thinking about how to react if other drivers don’t do what they are supposed to e.g. signal, yield, stop.  Having that in your mind will allow you to respond more quickly if something unexpected happens.

4) Keep Your Distance

Leaving stopping distance between you and the car ahead of you can give you just enough buffer time to avoid an accident.  It is recommended to leave 3 seconds of time between you and the other car.  While you are driving, pick a tree or sign or another object, and when the car in front of you passes it, start counting.  See how long it takes for you to pass it, and then adjust until you have 3 seconds of distance.

5) No Distractions

Not allowing yourself to be distracted can be extra challenging this time of the year. Everyone knows the dangers of texting or using your phone while driving.  Yet people do it anyway.  It is easy to underestimate the risks of eating or adjusting the radio or heat behind the wheel, but it only takes a few seconds of taking our eye off the road to cause a collision. Even talkative passengers or things going on outside of your vehicle can cause distractions.  Your safety is worth the discipline, so just stay focused.

6) Adjust to Weather Conditions

Weather conditions like rain or snow and ice can cause your car to handle very differently.  You may lose traction on curves or slide when braking more easily in such conditions.  By recognizing changing weather conditions and making mental adjustments you increase your stopping distance and slow your speeds when appropriate.  Also, consider having an emergency kit in case you get stranded in bad weather. 

7) Don’t Drink and Drive

We know this is a festive time and you want to celebrate with your loved ones.  But we cannot overemphasize the importance of drinking responsibly.  If you cannot find a designated driver, opt for an Uber or taxi.  With the days getting shorter, the deer hazards, and the fact that many people will be driving in unfamiliar areas, drinking and driving is a terrible mix.

Have a Safe and Happy Thanksgiving from Gibbons Law Firm!

Our Mid-Missouri personal injury attorneys want this to be a happy and safe time for you and your family.  We hope you find these tips helpful as you travel during the holidays.  If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a car accident because of another driver’s negligence, call our attorneys in LakeOzark. We can help them get the compensation they deserve and need to recover.  You can reach Gibbons Law Firm at (573)348-2211 and your initial consultation is free. To keep up with the latest news and tips, be sure to follow us on our social media channels listed below!

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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Safe Driving During the Holiday Season

We are just at the beginning of the winter season and knee-deep in the holiday season. Personal injury law applies to claims that arise when a person has sustained injury or damage caused by another party. The cases range from those involving a motor vehicle and boating accidents, business torts, defective products, premises liability, sexual harassment and discrimination, workers’ compensation, and wrongful death.

At Gibbons Law Firm, we know that safe driving can make a huge difference in avoiding unnecessary accidents. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you spend time out on the open road during the holidays and winter months.

Make Room
There will be more drivers on the road during this time of year, so it’s especially important to give them plenty of space on the road. The faster your car is traveling, the longer it will take for you to slow down, stop, or turn. Avoid tailgating the cars in front of you, and stay alert for nearby drivers who may be turning or merging.

Don’t Drive Intoxicated
Drinking and driving is an obvious hazard. There are warning signs posted all around, organizations make it their primary goal to educate as many people as possible to the dangers, and police officers work many hours to keep intoxicated drivers off of our roads. Alcohol impairment still accounts for about one-third of the traffic deaths in the United States, and 1.8% of adults in Missouri report driving after drinking too much (source: CDC). Don’t be a part of the statistic, find a designated driver and do not drink and drive.

Put Your Phone Down
Texting and driving has been established as a dangerous practice, but that doesn’t keep drivers from continuing to do it. There is an alarming number of drivers who cannot resist the temptation to check their phones, send a quick message, and endanger themselves and the other drivers around them. Ask a passenger to send the message for you, or wait until you have arrived at your destination.

Get Rest
Tired drivers will put themselves and those around them at great risk. Sleep-deprived drivers can be just as likely, if not more likely, than drunk drivers to be in an accident. In fact, some argue that drowsy driving can bee even more risky than distracted driving. If you know a road trip is coming up, be sure to get plenty of sleep the night before.

Before You Hit the Road
Sometimes freak accidents can be avoided by a little preparation ahead of time. Here are a few things you can do before you hit the road to make sure your car is ready for the adventure.

• Check your tire pressure
• Check your fluid levels
• Have your car looked at by a professional

Count on Gibbons Law Firm for Personal Injury Cases at the Lake of the Ozarks

Our entire team wishes you and your family a safe and enjoyable holiday season. If you will be out on the road visiting family or friends, we hope that you enjoy your celebrations and arrive safely. If, however, you suffer an injury at the hands of another driver, our personal injury lawyer in Lake Ozark, MO is ready to defend your rights and help you fight for the compensation you deserve.


Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.

Your Trusted Legal Resource

Gibbons Law Firm

2820 Bagnell Dam Blvd, Suite B4

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

(573) 348-2211

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