Stay safe on the road this holiday season
Parkland provider reminds drivers to slow down, stay alert, make safety a priority
Parkland Health physicians are reminding drivers to stay alert and exercise caution on the roads this holiday season. Whether it’s making a “happy holidays” phone call while driving, hurrying to the next gathering, or having a drink before getting behind the wheel, these behaviors can quickly turn celebration into tragedy.
“Driving while tired, impaired, or distracted is always dangerous,” said Jeffery Metzger, MD, Chief of Emergency Services at Parkland Health. “When you factor in the end of Daylight-Saving Time, reduced visibility, the potential for wet roads, and the pressures that come with the holidays, this becomes one of the most hazardous times of year for motorists.”
Dr. Metzger urges drivers to take simple precautions to protect themselves and others.
“Stop and rest before heading out, minimize distractions inside the vehicle, and slow down—especially when traveling after sunset,” he said. “When it’s dark, you can’t always tell if the road is dry. Too often, people are in a rush, and instead of attending a holiday party, they end up making an unplanned trip to the trauma center.”
During last year’s holiday season, from Nov. 1, 2024, through Jan. 2, 2025, Parkland’s Emergency Department treated 542 patients involved in motor vehicle or motorcycle crashes.
“Although we don’t know the exact cause of each crash, the numbers suggest many involved poor weather, impaired driving, or distractions,” Dr. Metzger said. “Especially during the holidays, drivers often think about their to-do lists instead of focusing on the most important task—arriving safely at their destination.”
As an emergency medicine physician, Dr. Metzger has seen firsthand the devastating effects of distracted driving. “In just a split second, lives can be changed forever—or lost,” he said, emphasizing that many of these incidents are entirely preventable.
“The winter holidays can bring added stress—financial pressures, tight schedules, and the rush to do too much at once,” Dr. Metzger added. “Unfortunately, that stress often translates into risky driving behaviors such as speeding, aggressive lane changes, and failing to yield. These choices put everyone on the road at risk.”
To help ensure a safe journey, the American Automobile Association (AAA) offers the following tips for holiday travel:
- Ensure your vehicle is road-ready. If maintenance is overdue, have your car and tires inspected before a long trip.
- Plan your route in advance. Expect heavy traffic during peak travel times. When possible, consider leaving earlier or later to avoid congestion.
- Keep roadside assistance information handy. Preparation can make all the difference if an incident occurs.
- Carry a charged cell phone and car charger. Many companies offer smartphone apps that allow motorists to request help without making a call.
“Having a safe and joyful holiday season is what we want for everyone,” Dr. Metzger said. “But if the unexpected happens, Parkland’s Emergency Department and Rees-Jones Trauma Center is always ready to care for those who need us.”
For information about services at Parkland, please visit www.parklandhealth.org.
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