Here at our Phoenix personal injury law firm, another year is winding down, and we send best wishes for safe and stress-free holiday travel.  In Arizona, our winter roads and highways are subject to varying temperatures and conditions during the holidays, and planning ahead for snow, ice or desert heat is not unwarranted.  We want to share these travel tips with you:

Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained. Have your car and tires inspected before your trip.  If you may need all-weather tires, purchase them.

Map your route in advance.  Take advantage of easy-to-use, real-time travel information sources to plan the best route of travel.

Try to drive earlier and/or later in the day to avoid heavy traffic.  Traveling during non-peak commuting periods can reduce your travel time by 37 percent.

Have your roadside assistance contact information on hand in case your vehicle breaks down.

Keep a cell phone and charger with you at all times in case of emergency.

On icy roads, allow 3 times more space between you and the vehicle in front of you.  Do not tailgate – ever. 

Remember that bridges and overpasses freeze faster in cold weather.

Slow down in inclement weather.  The goal is to arrive safely, not speedily.

Remember FHWA's web site at http://fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/index.htm has links to information on weather and road conditions.

Have happy and safe holidays!