Memorial Day is a major celebration around the country, but few states see as much activity as New Jersey and New York. Tourists and vacationers head to the shore in droves to mark the first holiday of the summer season, which means traffic will be crazy and the risk of crashes and other incidents will skyrocket. To have a safe and happy three-day weekend, you need only abide by safe driving practices and perhaps be a bit more alert than usual when you take to the roads.

Give other drivers breathing room
It can be tempting in stop-and-go traffic to inch close to the car in front of you, especially because leaving any more space than that will inevitably mean an eager car will attempt to squeeze in ahead of you. However, it's important to give yourself some space in case there is an accident and you need to get out of the way quickly. 

Patience is key
Sitting on the highway for hours on end when all you want to do is stick your toes in the sand can be frustrating, but remember that everyone else is in the same boat. Getting heated about the situation will only make it seem longer and can increase the chances you make an irrational decision and get into an accident. So crank some summer tunes, grin and bear it. Eventually you'll be off the roads and starting your vacation.

Plan ahead
Whether you're traveling a couple miles or a few hours to reach your vacation destination, it's important that you pack the necessary supplies. Water, flashlights, batteries and snacks are a some essentials you'll be glad you have on board in the event of a breakdown or a long wait on the exit ramp.

Get a tune-up
Before you hit the road, swing by your local auto shop, such as NJ Auto Auction's Total Car Care Center. A mechanic can perform routine maintenance, change your oil or address any other basic fixes to ensure you and your family will stay safe on the roads this weekend.