If you're driving home for the holidays, you need to be aware of and learn how to deal with holiday traffic and driving conditions. Learn how to drive safely with this post that DFW Distributor in Irving has for you.

We're nearing the end of the year and, with it, the holiday season! Halloween has come and gone. But we still have Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's to look forward to. This is an awesome time since you get to see your friends and family, spend time with them, eat some delicious food, and share laughs, stories, and experiences with your loved ones. However, if you're not near your family or friends, you may have to travel to meet with them. This can be a daunting endeavor since there's a lot of movement of people trying to get to their places. Especially if you're driving, you have to put up with holiday traffic, challenging driving conditions (poor visibility, slippery roads), and more. This is why you should learn and stick to certain driving tips during this time of year. Learn how to have a safe and smooth drive home through the post below.

A key part of staying safe on the road is ensuring your vehicle is in mint condition. Call DFW Distributor in Irving at (817) 821-2533 or visit AMSOIL's online store to order the top products to keep your vehicle in top working shape. 

How to Drive Home Safely during the Holiday Season

Take Care of Your Vehicle

The shorter and darker days, the slippery roads, the harsh weather conditions, and the number of vehicles make driving riskier than usual. In that situation, a faulty, unkempt vehicle won't fare well. You need a fully functional engine, battery, tires, cooling system, braking system, and more. This is why you must do an excellent job caring for your vehicle. Visit your mechanic before you head out, and let them know of your holiday plans. This will help you get your vehicle ready to have a safer drive.

A strong and healthy engine will help you get to where you want to go without a hitch. Feed yours with AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, the most effective synthetic oil in Irving.

Start Early in the Morning

If you're not a morning person, you may think it's not a big deal to start your holiday drive later in the day. However, you may want to reconsider. Here are a few of the benefits of starting early:

• you'll get more sunshine, which will allow you to see and be seen better
• the sun's rays can also give you the energy to continue your drive
• you won't feel pressured to reach your destination
• you may not have to fight as much holiday traffic

Just remember to get a good night's sleep, so you're rested and ready to go.

Driving According to the Conditions

It should go without saying that you should always aim to drive safely. However, if the conditions aren't great (poor visibility, high traffic, and rainy days), you should do the following:

• always pay attention to the road
• don't speed; go at a slow, steady pace
• keep your distance from the vehicles around you
• keep your headlights on day and night
• have a winter emergency kit (first aid kit, contact information, tools, etc.)

Make your drive home safer and smoother with proper vehicle maintenance. Call DFW Distributor in Irving at (817) 821-2533 or visit AMSOIL's online store to find products to upkeep your vehicle properly.

Don't Engage in Road Rage

Road rage is a phenomenon in which people get aggressive behind the wheel. This can lead to rash decisions and accidents. If the roads are heavy with holiday traffic, you may feel very angry at times. To stay safe:

• listen to soothing, happy music you like, stay toasty, and create a calm environment in your vehicle
• don't get hung up on minor inconveniences (e.g., another driver going slowly)
• don't react if someone else is raging at you

Rest When Needed

Lastly, you should realize that drowsy driving is just as bad as drunk driving. If you're feeling tired or sleepy when driving, take a break. Getting to your destination later is better than not making it at all. Here are things to keep in mind:

• stop a couple of times to stretch your legs if you're long-distance driving
• if you're feeling drowsy, get to a safe place to take a nap
• don't trust sugar or caffeine to stay awake

With all the holiday presents you need to get, it's a smart idea to save time and money on your vehicle's maintenance. Call DFW Distributor in Irving at (817) 821-2533 or visit AMSOIL's online store to find products that will help you maintain your vehicle perfectly.