Get to Your Valentine’s Date Safely with These Driving Tips

February 14, 2018

If you’re going out for Valentine’s Day, you’re probably planning to paint the town tonight or this weekend with your loved one. Unlike other winter holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, Valentine’s Day isn’t one to be celebrated at home with extended family over a large feast. Instead, it’s a night of romance, spontaneity, and adventure that, more often than not, means getting out of the house.

Because your head might be in the clouds with your loved one, you may not be as alert to the risks associated with celebrating in the city tonight. Follow these tips to make sure your Valentine’s date doesn’t get derailed by an unfortunate car accident.

1. It’s Winter. Drive Like It

By February, most Hoosiers are over winter. The snow may have felt magical in December, but by the new year, it’s simply become an everyday nuisance.

Maybe you’re wishing for a romantic snowfall on Valentine’s Day. Be careful what you wish for. Although snow may make your evening more magical, it’ll also likely make your drive into the city more dangerous.

Don’t let the romance of the evening keep you from driving safely. Let go of your significant other’s hand while you’re driving, and keep your eyes on the road. Drive slowly and increase your following distance between you and the car in front of you. If you have a fancy dinner reservation, budget extra travel time if there’s snow or ice so you don’t feel tempted to speed.

2. Don’t Drink and Drive

Unlike holidays like St. Patrick’s Day and Cinco de Mayo, Valentine’s Day doesn’t have quite the same reputation as a drinking holiday. Traditionally, most people simply go out to dinner with their significant other. You may think that because you’re not planning on hitting the bars, you’ll be okay to drive.

However, if Valentine’s Day has one beverage associated with it, it’s wine. Make sure to stay aware of how much you’re drinking over the course of your dinner. If you and your loved one decide to go winetasting to celebrate the day, make sure you have a plan to get home safely. Take public transportation or use a ridesharing app if you think there’s any risk you might not be fit to drive at the end of the night.

3. Keep the Distractions to a Minimum

The most important thing is making sure you’re focused while you’re on the road. That means minimizing any distractions that you may be tempted to indulge.

For example, you’ve probably created the perfect playlist for such a romantic night, but make sure you let your significant other be the resident DJ while you’re driving. If you really want to make it a surprise, decide on the order of the playlist beforehand and have the music play in order for the rest of the night.

You may be picking your date up for the night. If that’s the case, don’t let text messages that say, “Almost ready,” or, “Running late,” pull your eyes away from the road. Any iPhone running iOS 11 should have a “Do Not Disturb While Driving” feature. If you have an iPhone, make sure that feature is on, and let your date know that you won’t respond to text messages while you’re behind the wheel.

4. Watch Out for the Weird

It’s Valentine’s Day. That means more people in the street. Whether a couple is taking pictures in the road or a flash mob proposal has closed off an entire block, be careful and watch out for pedestrians.

Not only will you likely encounter more pedestrians than usual once you get into the city, but you’ll also likely encounter your fair share of weird vehicles. Whether you’re driving next to a limo, a tandem bike, or a horse-drawn carriage, make sure to give whatever vehicle is near you the space and respect it deserves. Never tailgate, and make sure you don’t speed.

Help from an Indiana Car Accident Lawyer

We hope you have a safe and happy Valentine’s Day. If your night on the town goes south due to a car accident, Hensley Legal Group may be able to help. Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation.