It is that time of year again, when the weather starts to change and holiday shopping begins.  The number of traffic crashes and reports of road rage increase at this time of year.  Here are some safety tips to remember when you hit the road to go to work, shopping or just over to Grandma’s house.

The drivers who are always in a hurry:

You should leave earlier allowing time for any type of traffic delays.  Check to see if there is construction work in the area that you have to travel to.  This will allow you time to get through the detour routes for that construction.

The Angry Driver:

Remember to leave your attitude at home.  When you get behind the wheel of a vehicle you are operating a 5,000 pound weapon that could cause serious or fatal injuries.

The Cell Phone Driver: (Text messaging):

If you have a cell phone purchase the hands free accessories so you do not have to take you attention away from your driving.  If you do not have the accessories, then let your voicemail answer the call and pull to the side of the road when it is safe.  If you like to text, then pull to the side of the road when it is safe and then send your text message.

North Grape Road/ North Main Street Area:

Remember that traffic will be heavier at this time of year and cars may be bumper to bumper.  The road conditions can change in a matter of minutes making it harder to stop in time.  Make sure to allow plenty of room between your car and the car in front of you so you have plenty of time to stop and avoid a crash.

Remember, it is easier to turn right then it is to turn left when entering or exiting a driveway unless at an intersection with a traffic signal.

Remember not to block intersections when making left turns, this can be very hazardous and cause traffic to back up. (Edison Road/ Grape Road and Grape Rd/ University Dr.  intersections)

Make sure that you have plenty of patience when driving in heavy traffic. If you start to get angry exit the roadway safely and calm down before driving again.

Impaired Drivers:

Remember to drink responsibly, better yet have a designated driver drive you around if you want to go out and have a few drinks.  Share the responsibility with your friends and take turns being the designated driver.  The impaired driver causes too much grief no matter what time of year it is.  Let’s work together and make our streets safer.  The St. Joseph County Traffic Safety Partnership will be out looking for Impaired and Dangerous Drivers from today until after January 1, 2018.