AAA SD Reminds Shoppers: Safety is Key as Holiday Sales Poised to Top $1 Trillion

Northeast Radio SD News – South Dakota - With holiday retail sales projected to exceed $1 trillion for the first time, AAA South Dakota is urging shoppers to make safety their top priority when navigating crowded parking lots and roadways this Black Friday and throughout the holiday season.

AAA South Dakota Public Affairs Manager Shawn Steward noted that vehicle and pedestrian traffic will be heavy around malls and retail centers.

“It’s vitally important that motorists and pedestrians alike practice patience, avoid distractions, protect their valuables and vehicles, and keep aggression in check while navigating parking lots and roadways,” Steward said.

The holiday season, while traditionally a time of goodwill, often magnifies stress, leading to frustration and aggression behind the wheel. Steward reminds drivers not to let heightened emotions dictate their actions.

“You never know how the other driver might react,” Steward explained. “Instead, maintain a cool head and focus on driving your own vehicle safely.”

To help prevent aggressive driving and road rage during congestion, AAA offers key tips:

·        Don’t Offend: Follow all traffic laws, use turn signals, and avoid behaviors that force other drivers to brake or swerve.

·        Be Tolerant: Assume the actions of other drivers are not personal, and remember your only job is to arrive safely.

·        Do Not Respond: Avoid eye contact and hand gestures, maintain space around your vehicle, and call 911 if you feel a situation is escalating dangerously.

Shared Responsibility for Safety

In addition to road behavior, AAA points to data from the National Safety Council, which warns that tens of thousands of crashes occur annually in parking lots and garages.

“Injuries and fatalities can spike this season simply due to the sheer number of shoppers determined to beat the crowd to the best sales of the season rather than focusing on where they are driving or walking,” Steward stated. “Pedestrians and motorists share the responsibility of creating safe roadways at all times.”

For Pedestrians:

·        Stay Alert: Avoid distractions; put down your smartphone and avoid wearing headphones in both ears.

·        Cross Safely: Use crosswalks and ensure vehicles have completely stopped before proceeding.

·        Theft Prevention: Park in well-lit areas, stow purchases in trunks or covered cargo areas, and always have keys ready when returning to your vehicle.

For Motorists:

·        Be Vigilant: Look out for distracted pedestrians and children, and follow posted speed limits.

·        Yield to Walkers: Drive with caution near crosswalks and store entrances, and always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians.

·        Do Not Clog Lanes: Park only in designated spaces and do not idle or park curbside, even for a brief moment.

AAA also reminds shoppers to take precautions against theft by keeping vehicles locked, new purchases out of sight, and staying aware of their surroundings in parking areas.

“AAA advises shoppers to always stay aware of their surroundings, be patient while searching for a parking space, and avoid distractions while out and about,” Steward concluded.