6 Tips for Driving Safely on Black Friday

Black Friday is one of the busiest shopping days of the year, and for many people, it’s the unofficial start of the holiday season. As shoppers rush to stores and malls in search of the best deals, the roads become congested, parking lots fill up, and stress levels rise. To ensure a safe and stress-free Black Friday, it’s essential to prioritize road safety. Continue reading to learn more from the team at Value Van & Car Rental.

1. Plan Ahead

Before heading out on Black Friday, plan your shopping route in advance. This includes mapping out your destination, identifying alternative routes, and checking for traffic updates on navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze. By planning your trip, you can avoid last-minute decisions that might lead to hasty and risky driving.

2. Be Mindful of Early Morning and Late Evening Hours

Many stores open their doors early on Black Friday, and others extend their hours into the late evening. If you're planning to shop during these times, be aware that reduced visibility can make driving more challenging. Use your headlights, and keep a safe following distance from other vehicles. Avoid distractions and stay alert on the road.

3. Avoid Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. On Black Friday, it's tempting to check your shopping list, compare prices on your phone, or even make purchases while driving. However, it's crucial to resist these distractions. Pull over to a safe location if you need to use your phone or consult your shopping list.

4. Stay Calm and Patient

Traffic congestion and full parking lots are par for the course on Black Friday. It's easy to become frustrated and impatient when navigating crowded streets and lots. However, maintaining your composure and patience is essential. Aggressive driving behaviors, such as tailgating and cutting off other drivers, can lead to accidents.

5. Use Caution in Parking Lots

Parking lots can be particularly hazardous on Black Friday, with people rushing to find spots and shoppers walking between cars. Drive slowly, use your turn signals, and be extra cautious in these areas. Always yield the right of way to pedestrians and respect crosswalks.

6. Buckle Up and Ensure Child Safety

Whether you're just making a short trip to the store or planning a day of shopping, always wear your seatbelt. If you have children with you, make sure they are securely fastened in their car seats or booster seats according to their age and size. Child safety is a non-negotiable aspect of responsible driving.

Need a quality vehicle for navigating your Black Friday adventure? Value Van & Car Rental has you covered. We offer affordable car, van, and SUV rentals. Contact us today at (908) 851-9595 to book your reservation.