The holiday season is a time for joy, reflection, and reconnecting with family and friends but it's also one of the busiest and most dangerous times of the year to be on the road. Between increased traffic, winter weather, and the distractions that come with the season, the chances of getting into a collision go up significantly in December.
At CARSTAR Robert’s Collision in Monterey, we know firsthand how quickly a festive trip can turn stressful after an accident. That’s why we want to help you avoid it altogether. Whether you’re taking a long road trip, making local visits, or just navigating holiday errands, these tips will help you travel safer this season.
Why Holiday Driving Requires Extra Attention
You might think Monterey’s mild weather makes winter driving less risky—but December conditions can still catch you off guard:
Sudden rain creates slick roads, especially after dry spells when oil has built up on the surface.
Fog and shorter daylight hours reduce visibility.
Out-of-town drivers unfamiliar with local roads can make unexpected moves.
Holiday fatigue and distractions lead to slower reaction times and reduced awareness.
More vehicles on the road = more opportunities for mistakes.
Combine all of these, and it’s easy to see why collision repair shops like ours see a sharp increase in accidents around the holidays. But with a little planning, you can avoid becoming part of that statistic.
1. Give Your Vehicle a Holiday Check-Up
Before you hit the road, especially if you're heading out of town, take a few minutes (or schedule a visit with your mechanic) to ensure your vehicle is ready for the trip. Key items to inspect:
Tires: Check pressure and tread depth. Cold air can reduce tire pressure, and bald tires can lose traction on wet roads.
Brakes: If your brakes are squealing, grinding, or feel soft, don’t wait. Get them checked immediately.
Battery: Cold weather can weaken your battery’s charge. If yours is more than three years old, consider having it tested.
Lights: Headlights, tail lights, and brake lights should all be working. Clean off any dirt or fogging from lenses.
Wipers and fluid: Replace worn blades and top off your washer fluid. Visibility matters more than ever in December weather.
2. Plan Your Route—and Your Timing
Traffic around the holidays is no joke. Last-minute shopping, airport pickups, and road trips mean everyone’s rushing. Don’t add to the chaos.
Leave early or late to avoid peak congestion. Midday and evenings around Dec. 23–24 and New Year’s Eve are particularly busy.
Use navigation apps to track traffic in real time and reroute around trouble spots.
Check weather reports and road conditions before you go.
And remember don’t just plan your route. Build in time for breaks, meals, and delays. A relaxed schedule helps reduce the temptation to speed or drive distracted.
3. Pack for Safety and Emergencies
No one expects a breakdown or accident, but it’s smart to be prepared just in case. Keep a small emergency kit in your trunk with the following:
4. Avoid Driving Tired or Distracted
One of the biggest hazards in holiday driving isn’t the weather or traffic—it’s the driver. With packed schedules and holiday stress, it’s easy to get behind the wheel when you shouldn’t.
Don’t drive drowsy—fatigue impairs your reaction time as much as alcohol.
Take breaks every 2 hours on long trips.
Switch drivers if possible.
Don’t text, scroll, or check GPS manually—use voice commands or let a passenger help.
Arriving late is better than not arriving at all.
5. Slow Down When Conditions Change
Rain, fog, or even early morning frost can turn familiar roads into hazards. Adjust your driving for the conditions:
Increase the following distance to allow for more stopping time.
Avoid hard braking on wet or slick surfaces.
Use headlights, not just running lights, in rain or fog.
Don’t use cruise control on wet roads it can cause hydroplaning.
Stay calm, focused, and in control even if others aren’t.
6. Make Seatbelts a Non-Negotiable
Whether you’re driving two blocks or two hundred miles, seat belts save lives. Make sure everyone in the vehicle is buckled up—yes, even in the backseat—and never drive off until everyone is secured. It’s a simple habit that can make a massive difference in an accident.
If an Accident Happens, We’re Here for You
Even the most prepared driver can’t control what others do. If you find yourself in a collision, don’t panic. Document the scene, exchange info, and call CARSTAR Robert’s Collision as soon as possible.
We’ll help with:
Towing assistance to our facility
Digital photo imaging and computerized estimates
Seamless insurance coordination
Factory-standard repairs, backed by our Zero Comeback Policy
We’ll work hard to get your vehicle and your holidays back on track.
Celebrate the Holidays Safely
At CARSTAR Robert’s Collision, we’re proud to serve the Monterey community with excellence, integrity, and care. Whether you’re staying local or traveling this season, we wish you safe roads, meaningful moments, and a stress-free season.
Need Us This Holiday Season?
Accidents don’t take time off—and neither do we. If you need help before, during, or after the holidays, just reach out. We’ll be here with the tools, experience, and care you deserve.
Schedule online:www.roberts-autorepair.com. CARSTAR Robert’s Collision – Keeping You Safe This Season, and Every Season.