Travel safely this holiday weekend with tips from Amica
08.31.12
LINCOLN, RI – The nation’s roadways are expected to be busy this Labor Day weekend, with everyone celebrating the unofficial end of summer. But holiday weekends also usually see a spike in traffic accidents, so Amica Insurance reminds motorists to stay alert and use extra caution.
"Lots of people will be hitting the roads this weekend for road trips, cookouts and family gatherings,” said Lisa St. Onge, an assistant vice president with Amica Insurance. “It’s important to be well-rested and alert while driving and to allow plenty of time to reach your destination.”
More than 32,000 people died in car accidents last year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention further reports that motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among those ages 5 to 34 in the United States.
"Holiday weekends usually result in an increased risk for traffic accidents, so we’re urging motorists to be extra careful while traveling this weekend,” St. Onge said.
Here are a few reminders:
• Don’t drink and drive. Make sure you have a designated driver.
• Wear your seatbelt at all times.
• Avoid distracted driving. Many states now ban the use of hand-held cell phones and/or texting while driving.
• Don’t speed or drive carelessly.
• Take frequent breaks and remember to stop if you’re tired.
• Slow down for road construction and beware of detours.
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“If you are in an accident, remain calm, turn your hazard lights on and pull off the road, if it is safe to do so,” St. Onge said. “If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.”
Here are a few other tips if you are involved in an accident:
• Contact emergency personnel.
• Give the police your version of what happened. Always ask for the police officer’s name, department and incident number.
• Exchange information with the other vehicle’s owner and obtain contact information from passengers and/or witnesses.
• Take photos and videos of the scene if it’s safe to do so.
Amica.com also offers an accident checklist you can print and keep in your car, St. Onge said. It’s also available on the Amica mobile app.
"Safety is the top priority, so buckle up and slow down,” St. Onge said. “We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend.”
About Amica
Amica Mutual Insurance Company, the nation's oldest mutual insurer of automobiles, was founded in 1907. The company, with corporate headquarters in Lincoln, RI, is a national writer of automobile, homeowners, marine and personal umbrella liability insurance. Life coverage is available through Amica Life Insurance Company, a wholly owned subsidiary. Amica employs more than 3,100 people in 40 offices across the country.
CONTACT: Vince Burks, Corporate Communications, 50 Amica Way,
Lincoln, RI 02865-1155, 800-652-6422, ext. 24563
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