Have Fun and Stay Protected

Spring break should be memorable for the right reasons. Whether you’re heading to the beach, taking a road trip, or flying to a new city, a little preparation can prevent major problems. Use these practical tips to increase Spring Break Safety while you enjoy your trip.

Prevent Car Accidents During Spring Break Travel

Road trips are common during spring break. To lower your risk of a crash and increase Spring Break Safety:

• Avoid distracted or impaired driving.
• Obey speed limits and local traffic laws.
• Always wear your seat belt.
• Use licensed, reputable rideshare services.

Motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of spring break injuries.

Choose Safe Transportation

Road trips and rideshares are common during spring break, but Spring Break Safety measures are key to a great trip.

• Avoid driving long distances without rest.
• Never drive under the influence.
• Use reputable rideshare services and verify the driver before entering the vehicle.
• Always wear your seat belt.

If you’re traveling in a group, make sure everyone has a safe way to get back to your lodging each night.

Spring Break Safety Includes Planning Ahead

Spring Break Travel Safety starts before you pack your bags.

• Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member.
• Confirm hotel reservations and transportation details.
• Research your destination, including local laws and safety concerns.
• Pack a small emergency kit if you’re driving.

Planning ahead reduces stress and helps you respond quickly if something goes wrong.

Protect Yourself in Public Spaces

Large crowds, parties, and unfamiliar locations can increase risks.

• Stay with your group when going out.
• Never leave drinks unattended.
• Watch your belongings in crowded areas.
• Avoid posting your exact location in real time on social media.

Situational awareness goes a long way in preventing theft or dangerous situations and increasing Spring Break Safety.

Practice Beach and Outdoor Safety

Many spring break trips involve water activities or outdoor adventures.

• Swim near lifeguards and follow posted warnings.
• Stay hydrated and use sunscreen regularly.
• Follow safety rules for boating, jet skiing, or hiking.
• Know weather conditions before heading out.

Water and outdoor recreation can be fun – but only when you take precautions.

Keep Emergency Contacts Ready

Charge your phone, enable location sharing if needed, and trust your instincts. Leave immediately if a situation feels unsafe.

Spring Break Safety Is Trusting Your Instincts

If a situation feels unsafe, remove yourself immediately. Call for help if necessary. Keep your phone charged and store emergency contacts in an easily accessible place. Spring Break Safety is a sure way to create good memories.

What To Do In Case Of An Injury During The Trip

If you or a family member become injured during Spring Break travel due to someone else’s negligence, you may need to hold the negligent party responsible. Ensure that you take photos of the scene while you are there and gather details immediately. It can be difficult to get information once you leave the location of the incident. 

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Please call Johnson Law to discuss your case: (907)277-3090 or use our online contact form.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Image created using ChatGPT – Prompt: Alaskans traveling safely for spring break

Information Source: University of Alaska REMOTE TRAVEL SAFETY GUIDE

Prepare Before Your Flight

Traveling during the holiday season, especially holiday air travel, introduces many new germs to your immune system. Avoid becoming sick during or after the holidays by drinking water days before your flight and preparing your immune system. Continue drinking water regularly while you are traveling so that your body stays hydrated. Sleep is important for the same reason and allows your body to fight bacteria that may cause sickness. Get plenty of rest, especially while during holiday air travel.

Allow Extra Time For Holiday Air Travel

Check Airport Status: Visit alaskaair.com/airport-guides for specific holiday air travel information, especially in hubs like Seattle. Arrive early, aiming for two hours domestic flights and three hours for international due to airport congestion.

Provide Extra Travel Time: To the airport due to increases in traffic. If you drive yourself to the airport, consider the time it takes to park and unload your vehicle. Store keys in an easy to find location and take a photo of your parking spot. This jogs the memory of where your car is parked upon your return home.

Reduce Check-In Wait Times: Check-in online before you leave your house. The goal of TSA is to get everyone through security as quickly as possible while also protecting travelers. Know the rules before you and prepare by putting liquids and electronics in easy-to-reach locations for holiday air travel security lines.

Luggage

Consider what you are taking and if you actually need it. Check bags when necessary but remember, you will have to lug everything through busy airports during holiday air travel arrivals and departures.

If you are transporting gifts on your flight, do not wrap the gifts ahead of time. If TSA needs to see what is inside, they can rip your wrapped gifts open.

Pack light for carry-on luggage and remember many flights during holiday air travel windows are full with very little overhead space. If you lock your luggage, make sure the lock is TSA approved. Finally, never leave your luggage unattended. It is a safety concern but also can get stolen.

Whether traveling by car, bus, train, or plane, plan ahead – avoid being overwhelmed by the crowds. General courtesy and safety precautions for holiday air travel keeps everyone safer. Travel safety considerations are the best way to avoid potential dangers.

Johnson Law has been helping injured Alaskans for 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Johnson Law wishes everyone a Safe and Happy Holiday Season.

Information Source: Alaska Airlines

Image Source: Adobe Stock

Luggage

When traveling for an extended stay, travel safety includes considering what you put in your luggage. You will have to tote luggage across platforms and down streets covered in snow and ice. Luggage storage is underneath public transportation vehicles. Thus, do not store valuables in luggage you plan to stow. Also, use a luggage lock. Never leave luggage unattended. Finally, keep track of all your belongings. This will help ensure nothing gets left on a platform or at a bus stop.

Plan ahead by packing a small emergency kit with snacks, water, first aid, a phone charger and flashlight. If you are traveling with small children make sure to keep up with personal items so nothing is lost.

Dress Warm For Holiday Travel Safety In Alaska

Consider the weather while packing, especially in Alaska. Dressing appropriately is a key to travel safety. When traveling by train or bus, you constantly change from colder temperatures outside to warmer temperatures inside. Depending on travel plans, you may enter or exit public transport vehicles multiple times. Dress in layers to accommodate changes in temperature when boarding and exiting. Wear jackets with pockets to store gloves and hats easily.

Watch Your Step

Injuries occur too often while exiting or boarding trains and buses. If you need extra boarding time, let the transport crew know in advance. Steps may contain ice or snow. Use hand rails when available and watch in front when getting on or off a train or bus. Do not rush those in front of you who may need extra time. Every passenger deserves travel safety consideration.

Plan ahead – avoid being overwhelmed by the crowds. General courtesy and safety precautions for holiday travel via public transport keeps everyone safer. Travel safety considerations are the best way to help avoid potential dangers.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans injured in winter driving accidents for 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Johnson Law wishes everyone a Safe and Happy Holiday Season.

Image Source: Alaska Tours

Three Kid Vehicle Safety Tips

1. Stay focused. As the driver, your goal is to stay as focused as possible while you’re on the road. If you become distracted, there’s a risk that you could make a mistake resulting in a crash that impacts your child for life. Increase child vehicle safety through preparation and planning. Stress to your children the importance of being calm in the car, since tantrums, yelling and other acts could distract you.

2. Get the right seats for your children. Booster seats and child safety seats have size and weight requirements. Always purchase a current seat instead of buying older used models, and make sure it’s designed for your child’s height and weight. Keeping your child in a car seat or booster seat until the child reaches the height or age limits of the state is vital to his or her safety.

3. Buckle up every time. Make sure your child buckles up. Yes, children sometimes unbuckle themselves. As a parent, it’s your job to pull over and reconnect the buckle each time to keep children safe.

With good preventative measures, it’s possible to keep children safe, even in serious crashes – through Child Safety Month and beyond.

When The Unthinkable Happens

Those injured in automobile accidents may wish to consult an attorney. Recovery from a car accident can be costly, and an individual might want to file a lawsuit against the individual or entity responsible.

If you consider hiring an Alaska Injury Law Firm for a serious injury claim after an accident in Alaska, speak to the experienced Alaska personal injury attorneys at Johnson Law, P.C. We know Alaska and Alaskan Law.

Keep kids safer while driving Alaska roads by practicing Child Vehicle Safety. Child safety is always a first priority, Alaska.

Johnson Law has been helping injured Alaskans for 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Information Source: Center for Safe Alaskans – Child Passenger Safety and Safe Parents – Alaska Car Seat Laws

Image Source: Safe Parents – Alaska Car Seat Laws

Holiday Travel Tends To Be Dangerous

Studies present mixed findings in identifying the most dangerous day of the year to drive. One thing is certain however, Alaska travel on Independence Day is among the most dangerous days of the year to be on the road. While it is wise to stay off the roads on July 4th, traveling for many is going to happen. If you find yourself traveling, use extra caution.

Alaska Travel And Independence Day

Independence Day weekend expects to be busy for road travel, with heavy traffic predicted, particularly on Wednesday, July 2nd, and Sunday, July 6th. Traffic delays are likely, especially for traveler leaving after 11 a.m. Use good judgment for Alaska travel during Independence Day weekend.

Much Alaska travel on Independence Day stems from Alaskans enjoying a long weekend during which they don’t have to work. Many people travel to visit friends and family or to attend Independence Day celebrations. Additional people on the roadways for July 4th changes normal traffic patterns and causes traffic during unexpected times of the day. Give yourself extra time to reach your destination and avoid stressful, frustrating situations.

Alcohol Consumption

Alaska Travel on Independence Day and alcohol are a poor combination. Unfortunately, too many people consume more alcohol than usual during July 4th celebrations, causing drinking and driving to be a bigger concern. The increase in alcohol consumption means it is up every Alaskan to practice caution while on the roads. Watch for intoxicated drivers and report those drivers to the local police agency.

An accident during Alaska travel over the Independence Day weekend may result in an incredibly high cost. You or a loved one may end up in the hospital with injuries. You could be delayed getting back to work and lose wages. For all of these things and more, talk to an experienced Alaskan Injury Attorney to discuss your right to compensation. Johnson Law wishes you and yours a safe Independence Day weekend.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your July 4th auto accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Source: Alaska.org; Alaska Tours

Image Source: Travel Alaska

National Road Trip Day History

National Road Trip Day became a holiday in 2019 because of Pilot Flying J. Pilot Flying J is currently the largest travel center operator in North America. They chose the last Monday in May as the day for the holiday because it marks the start of summer in North America and offers most people a long weekend. Travel stories are woven into America’s very fabric and it makes sense to observe a day that celebrates that part of our country’s history.

National Road Trip Day Origins

There’s a reason why “The Great American Road Trip” is a catchphrase. The U.S. is the one country where road trips count as a holiday in themselves. Whether it’s to pay tribute to fallen heroes by visiting war memorials across the country, or an excuse to get out of town and have a change of scenery; road trips are loved by Americans throughout the country.

The first recorded road trip across the U.S. began in 1903 with a bet. Someone bet Horatio Nelson Jackson (a physician and automobile pioneer) that he could not travel from San Francisco to New York City in less than 90 days. Accompanied by mechanic Sewall K. Crocker, and a dog named Bud, they set off in a 20-horsepower Winston to prove them wrong. Despite numerous mishaps, Jackson and Crocker completed the trip in 63 days.

Alaska Driver Safety Tips

If you are planning to explore Alaska on National Road Trip Day or anytime this summer, keep these driver safety tips in mind:

• Plan Ahead – Alaskan Road trips require planning. Plot your course. Consider construction, fuel and snack stops before taking off.
• Service Your Vehicle – Vehicle maintenance is a vital part of any successful road trip. Therefore, ensuring your vehicle’s oil has been changed recently and its tires are rotated are key. In addition, make sure your wipers are in good working order and your wiper fluid is full. Check to make sure all your vehicle’s lights and signals are working. Check the condition of your brake pads. Make sure your vehicle registration is current.
• Take your time and enjoy National Road Trip Day – There’s plenty of time to get to your Alaska destination.

After all, the goal of any road trip through Alaska- including those on National Road Trip Day – is that all Alaskans arrive at the destination not only happily, but safely as well.

Whether taking a road trip, spending the day with family and friends, or commemorating quietly at home, we at Johnson Law wish Alaska a safe and happy Memorial Day Weekend celebration. If you are seriously injured in a car accident, boat accident, or any accident caused by another person, please contact an experienced Alaska Personal Injury Attorney. 

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Info Source: National Today

Photo Source: Bearfoot Theory

Prepare Your Home

Ensure you prepare your home ahead Spring Break travel. It is a good idea to unplug major electronic items such as computers and televisions before you leave. This will help reduce energy consumption while you are away and protect your electronics in case of power outages.

Store valuable items in a safe place and lock exterior doors and windows to deter intruders. Park your vehicle in a well-lit area or in a garage if you are using it for the trip. Let a neighbor know you are traveling for Spring Break and provide contact information, so they can reach you in an emergency.

College Students Traveling For Spring Break Without The Family

College students may choose to take advantage of the time off to visit home or travel to a popular destination. Spring Break travel for a young college student may be their first time taking a trip without parents. It is important that families communicate about travel plans.

Parents of college students should ask questions. Ask where your child will be staying during their trip and who will be their travel companion. Get names, phone numbers, and addresses ahead of time. Ensure you have a recent photo of your child in case of emergency. Ask your child to regularly check in with you while they are traveling for Spring Break and provide a safe word in case they are in danger. It could save their life.

For students traveling for Spring Break, you can stay safe by being aware of your surroundings, practicing safe drinking, and traveling with friends. 

Spring Break Travel Safety Tips

• Never travel alone
• Share your location with friends and family when traveling for Spring Break
• Stay aware of your surroundings
• Don’t go out alone, especially at night
• Drink responsibly
• Trust your instincts and leave if you feel unsafe
• Lock your hotel door
• Don’t share your room number or location with strangers
• Practice safe driving
• Don’t text while driving

What To Do In Case Of An Injury During The Trip

If you or a family member become injured during Spring Break travel due to someone else’s negligence, you may need to hold the negligent party responsible. Ensure that you take photos of the scene while you are there and gather details immediately. It can be difficult to get information once you leave the location of the incident. 

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Please call Johnson Law to discuss your case: (907)277-3090 or use our online contact form.

Sources: CBS News; Life 360

Image Source: On Call International

Impaired Driving’s Impact On Holiday Road Travel

The National Safety Council predicts that more than 300 people will die in a car crash during the Christmas and New Year holiday road travel season. In 2022, there were more than 13,000 deaths related to drunk-driving accidents or 32 percent of all traffic fatalities. On average, one person died every 39 minutes in an alcohol-impaired driving crash in 2022. 

 A major cause of holiday road travel deaths is impaired driving. Bad weather also causes accidents. When you add drinking, driving and bad weather together, the mixture can be deadly. These dangers led to Proclamation 10866: National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, 2024.

Proclamation 10866 of November 29, 2024

Too many families know the pain of losing a loved one to a drunk or drug-impaired driving accident. Each year, more than 10,000 Americans lose their lives in these preventable tragedies. During National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, we remind everyone that they can save lives by driving only when sober, calling for a ride, planning ahead, and making sure friends and loved ones do the same.

Other Common Factors In Holiday Road Travel Hazards

Distracted Driving: Distracted driving causes traffic crashes when a driver’s focus prevents them from responding to winter driving conditions. Reduce the possibility of accidents during the holiday season, by taking extra precautions and staying focused on the road.

Fatigued Driving: The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year. Exhausted drivers are at risk of falling asleep while driving, which can increase the risk of traffic accidents during holiday travel.

Peak Travel Periods: The number goes up when holidays fall on a weekend and down when Christmas is in the middle of the week. In other words, when fewer people are on the road, fewer people get hurt. Plan your holiday travel to avoid the last-minute rush. It is also wise to avoid winter driving during busy hours.

Alaska Wildlife Crossing: Unique to Alaska and other northern locations, is large animals, such as moose and caribou, crossing highways. Alaska drivers must always remain alert for large animals crossing Alaska roadways.

Arrive Alive

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration urges everyone to plan a safe ride home and to always wear a seat belt this holiday season. Slow down and leave plenty of room for stopping. Drive with your headlights on!

Never drive under the influence – not even with a “buzz” … Winter driving, or any driving impaired by a substance – whether alcohol or other drugs – legal or illegal – is against the law throughout the United States, including Alaska. If you see an impaired driver on the road, call 911.

From all of us at Johnson Law, P.C., we wish you a safe and happy holiday season.

Johnson Law, P.C. has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Information Sources: American Automobile Association; National Safety Council; Federal Register; National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; and Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities

Image Source: Alaska Public Media

Alaska Safety Campaigns

NHTSA reports that every day, about 37 people in the United States die in drinking and driving crashes — that means drinking and driving kills one person every 39 minutes. While many Holiday festivities changed in 2020 than in years past, the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol remain the same.

Alaska State Troopers and Alaska Wildlife Troopers across Alaska began more focused patrols for impaired drivers in 2020. These focused patrols continued during Alaska’s 2021, 2022, and 2023 holidays known for increases in alcohol related crashes.

Tips To Drinking And Driving

If you are invited to a holiday party, plan ahead by having a designated driver. Programs like Uber and Lyft make it easier to find a ride home, making the roads safer for everyone.

If you plan to drink alcohol, be responsible and turn your keys over to the host. Stay where you are, if possible. Do not get behind the wheel of a vehicle if you have been drinking alcohol.

If you host an event, require your guests to turn over their keys when they arrive. Do not let family and friends leave your event if they have been drinking alcohol.

Signs Of Drinking and Driving

Signs of dangerous – and possible drunk driving may include:

• weaving in and out of lanes
• driving with windows rolled down in cold weather
• passing on curves and double yellow lines
• straddling the center line
• making wide or high speed turns out of assigned lanes
• driving so slowly as to impede other traffic under current conditions
• tailgating

Report Drunk Drivers

If you are on the road and see someone driving dangerously, call 911 and report dangerous driving. It is up to Alaskans to help keep drunk drivers off Alaskan roads. Stay clear of drivers who appear intoxicated. If necessary, pull your vehicle over to let them pass.

Click here to learn about Alaska Dram Shop Law

Celebrate Safely. If your holiday plans include alcohol, please avoid drinking and driving to help make everyone’s holidays safer.

Johnson Law, P.C. wishes you and yours a peaceful, healthy holiday season.

Johnson Law, P.C. has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Sources: NHTSA; Alaska Department of Public Safety

Image Source: DontDrunkDrive

Holiday Travel Via Automobile

Traveling via automobile is common this time of year for many people across the country. It can be also be stressful, especially for Alaskans. If you are traveling by car this holiday season, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Prepare Your Automobile

Regular maintenance is incredibly important for vehicles but before taking a long trip, perform a double check. Check things like fluid levels, tire tread and tire pressure. Do not wait until the last minute to try to get your oil changed or get gas. Make appointments now for fluid changes or tire rotations, and fill up your gas tank ahead of time. Ensure you have a safety kit handy and accessible in case of emergency. If you plan to haul luggage on top of or behind your vehicle, make sure to strap it down well so it does not fall off onto the roadway.

Give Yourself Extra Time For Holiday Travel

The weather in Alaska during winter is rough and with added traffic, can seriously slow down travel plans. Before you go, check the National Weather Service for Alaska for winter weather warnings, watches, and advisories. Know which major roads you will be taking and go to Alaska 511 for road maintenance information, so that you are prepared for travel delays . Further, add time onto anticipated arrival times and leave early in case of changes while traveling.

Keep The Roads Safer

As a driver this season, it is up to you to keep the roads safe. Call or text your friends or family BEFORE you get on the road to let them know your anticipated arrival time. Get off your phone while you are driving and do not text while behind the wheel. Stay alert and watch other vehicles to avoid being involved in an accident. Use your blinker to signal other drivers of your intention to turn or change lanes and pull over if you become distracted.

Finally, get plenty of sleep before you get behind the wheel of a vehicle for holiday road travel. Driving while tired is a major concern and makes the roads more dangerous for yourself and others.

Holiday Travel Via Air

The increase in holiday travel is more than just busier roads. Airports also experience an influx in people and are often very chaotic this time of year. With the increase in travelers, there are several things to consider when flying over the holiday season.

Before Your Flight

Holiday travel, especially by air, introduces many new germs to your immune system. Avoid becoming sick during or after the holidays by drinking water days before your flight and preparing your immune system by taking Vitamin C tablets. Continue drinking water regularly while you are traveling so that your body stays hydrated. Sleep is important for the same reason and allows your body to fight bacteria that may cause sickness. Get plenty of rest, especially while traveling.

Allow Extra Time

The Alaska International Airport System recommends that travelers provide extra time to reach the airport due to increases in traffic. If you plan to drive yourself to the airport, consider the time it will take to park and unload your vehicle. If you drive yourself, make sure to store keys in an easy to find location and take a photo of your parking spot to remember where your car is parked upon your return home.

Reduce check-in wait times by checking-in online before you leave your house. The goal of TSA is to get everyone through security as quickly as possible while also protecting travelers. Know the rules before you and prepare by putting liquids and electronics in easy-to-reach locations.

Holiday Travel Luggage

Consider what you are taking and if you actually need it. Check bags when necessary but remember, you will have to lug everything through busy airports. If you are transporting gifts on your flight, do not wrap the gifts ahead of time. If TSA needs to see what is inside, they can rip your wrapped gifts open. Pack light for carry-on luggage and remember many flights this time of year are full with little overhead space. If you want a lock on your luggage, make sure the lock is TSA approved. Finally, never leave your luggage unattended. It is a safety concern but also can get stolen.

If your holiday travel plans involve airports, please make sure to practice these tips to help make your travel safer and less stressful.

Johnson Law, P.C. wishes you and yours a peaceful, healthy holiday season and safe holiday travel.

Johnson Law, P.C. has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Secondary Sources: National Weather Service; Alaska 511, Alaska International Airport System; and Master Lock

Image Source: Shield Healthcare