Independence Day is an iconic symbol of freedom and joy in the United States. And traditionally, people take advantage of this holiday to drive long distances to see loved ones or go on a getaway. As exciting as it sounds, you should be extra careful when getting from Point A to Point B on the fourth. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway and Safety, July 4th is the deadliest day of the year for motorists in the USA. With that being said, here are five driving tips that will ensure your safety this 4th of July: 

1. Practice safe driving etiquette.

Negligence is the number reason behind the majority of car accidents in the US. Safe driving etiquette usually entails the basics of buckling up and asking other passengers to put on their seat belts before hitting the road. Additionally, always have your hands on the steering wheel and keep your eyes on the road at all times. Most importantly, do not drink and drive. 

2. Avoid distractions.

The most common distraction out there is your cell phone. It goes without saying that you should never text and drive, considering it is illegal in most states. Other distractions include eating while driving, moving objects, loud noise, and adjusting audio and climate functions. If you need to change anything, try having a passenger do it for you. 

3. Timing and planning matters.

Many groups of friends and families leave for their 4th of July trip at least a few days before the holiday. It's a great idea to minimize and possibly avoid traffic altogether. Statistics show that it is better to be on the road before 7 AM than driving on July 4th between 3–8 PM.

4. Make sure you are well-rested. 

If you know that you will be doing a lot of driving on July 4tth, then make sure you get a good night of sleep before. The more rested you are, the more alert you will be to carry out your adventure. Lack of sleep can affect your focus and your ability to make good decisions on the road. If there are multiple passengers, consider switching drivers to keep your mind clear. 

5. Preventative Maintenance pays off.

 Take your car to a trusted shop like ours. At Kaufman's Auto Repairs, we can ensure that your entire vehicle will run in good condition throughout your trip. This tip is the most overlooked step, but it does pay off in the end. 

Wherever you choose to be on this holiday, we hope you are informed about driving safety before you embark on your trip. Have a Happy 4th of July!