Follow These Tips For Safe and Enjoyable Driving This New Year
Few things are more enjoyable than ringing in the new year with your dearest friends and family members. As 2024 is just around the corner, you need to start thinking about your travel plans for the festivities. Without proper planning, things can turn sour quickly.
Sadly, many regions of the United States of America experience increased car accidents during winter holidays. So, join us at Idaho Title Loans, Inc. as we explore the best tips to keep you and your loved ones safe this new year.
5 Driving Tips for A Safe and Enjoyable New Year
1. Plan Your Trip
Statistics show there are 71% more car accidents on December 31st and January 1st than the rest of the year. Why? The surge in alcohol and drug use during the celebrations.
Most communities understand this. Therefore, they post more police officers on the roads at this time to keep everybody as safe as possible. If you can avoid driving on these nights, do so. Have a party at your house or drive to see relatives on a different day to reduce the likelihood of getting into an accident.
If you do head out, always plan your trip. Know the route to the event and choose well-maintained roads. Watching the news beforehand to learn about current accident-prone spots is also important.
2. Winterize Your Car Ahead Of Time
All the planning in the world won't help if you fail to winterize your car. So, if funds allow, invest in snow tires before driving anywhere in the wintery mix. They boast deeper treads and patterns made specifically for keeping you on the road through snowy, icy conditions.
Beyond snow tires, have the following in your car to ensure you're prepared for any situation:
- Scraper
- Small shovel
- Wiper fluid
- Emergency blankets (one per person in the vehicle)
- Food kit with water and food (enough for a few days)
- Two chains or rope
- Flashlights
- Emergency lights or reflectors
- Jumper cables
3. Stick To The Speed Limit
This should go without saying, but it's still worth a mention. Speed limits are there for a reason — to protect road users. Always pay attention to them and don't risk crashing just because you're running late. It's better to arrive late than not at all.
4. Stay Focused
Distracted driving is the leading cause of accidents in the United States. Cellphone use is a too-common example of this, but drivers can also be distracted by:
- loud or disruptive passengers.
- adjusting music volume, air conditioning or heating, and navigation features.
- eating or drinking.
- moving objects or animals in the car.
- rubbernecking.
- smoking.
- applying makeup.
Always minimize distractions when you're behind the wheel, especially during the holidays when more vehicles and pedestrians are on the roads.
5. Emergency Strikes? You Can Use Your Lien-Free Title To Get A Loan
Even with all the planning, winterizing, and safe driving, a crisis can pop up at any time. Whether it's a medical bill, out-of-hours veterinary attention, home damage, or a vehicle breakdown, if life wants to throw you a curve ball, it will. Unfortunately, said curve balls are often expensive to remedy. But when that happens, you can use your car's title to get a loan from us at Idaho Title Loans, Inc.
Our title loans are easy to apply for and you don't need to have a good credit score. To qualify, you must provide three things — a state-issued ID, a lien-free title to your vehicle, and your car, truck, or van. That's it! Although, you must own your car outright to be eligible.
Depending on the value of your vehicle, you can borrow up to $15,000 to fund large and small emergencies. That said, it's important to only apply for the amount you need. Don't fall into the trap of borrowing more "because you can," as you'll only have to repay it in the end!
But what if you don't own your car outright? That's not a problem. We offer payday loans and signature installment loans, so you have plenty of borrowing options. You can borrow between $100 and $500 with the former, and up to $1,250 with the latter.
Secure A Loan From Idaho Title Loans, Inc. Right Now!
Staying safe and maintaining enjoyment as the calendar flips into 2024 requires planning, winterizing, focusing on the road, sticking to the speed limit, and assigning designated drivers. Following our tips gives you the best possible chance of a truly merry holiday season.
However, if certain aspects don't go as planned, a loan from Idaho Title Loans, Inc. is a convenient option to get the festivities back on track. Fill out the online form or give your local store a call. To get started We'll answer any questions you may have and help you through the loan process if you decide to proceed.
Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.