Stopping Holiday Traffic for a Selfie Can Land Iowans on the Naughty List
Many Iowans enjoy packing the family into the car at dusk, turning on Christmas music, and driving around town to admire holiday light displays, but AAA-Iowa says safety should come first.
AAA-Iowa spokesman Brian Ortner says drivers should follow the rules of the road and avoid stopping in traffic to take photos.
“You want to remain focused on driving,” Ortner says. “A carload of family is definitely fun, and you want to enjoy the lights, but make sure you’re not stopping in traffic to take pictures. Pull over to a safe place and take your photo.”
Ortner says while some holiday light displays rival famous over-the-top decorations, they can also become a distraction for drivers.
“Make sure everybody in the car is buckled up. You’re still on the road, things can happen,” Ortner says. “As the driver, stay focused on the road. There’s going to be extra people walking the streets, driving the streets, and young children who may be playing in the snow.”
He says drivers should be especially careful at drive-through holiday light displays, which are popular in many Iowa communities.
“There’s parks, golf courses, neighborhoods, some are walk-through,” Ortner says. “But if you’re driving, stay vigilant on avoiding those distractions. If you are the driver, pull over, get out, and enjoy the lights just like your passengers are.”
Ortner also reminds drivers to turn their headlights back on after leaving drive-through displays and to be prepared for winter travel.
“Make sure you wear the appropriate winter gear in the car in case of an emergency,” Ortner says. “Keep your roadside emergency kit handy — blankets, water, snacks, flashlights — so if you do have to stop for a while, you can stay warm, hydrated, and fed.”
More winter driving tips are available on AAA’s website.
