Deck the Cars, Drive Festive and Drive Smart
We love seeing holiday spirit on the road. From glowing antlers to Rudolph noses and full-blown light shows, Texans go all out, sometimes literally. But while decorating your vehicle is a fun way to celebrate, it’s important to do it the right way. We’ve seen more than a few festive flubs over the years, and trust us, nobody wants their holiday cheer to turn into a roadside emergency call for help. If you’re gearing up to dress up your ride this season, here’s how to do it safely without putting yourself or other drivers at risk. And yes, our Windcrest towing crew has seen it all.
Know What’s Legal and What’s Not
Not all decorations are road-ready. Texas law doesn’t specifically ban holiday adornments, but it does require your vehicle to be safe and visible. That means decorations can’t block your view or interfere with driving in any way.
Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Anything that obstructs your windshield or side windows.
- Lights that mimic emergency vehicles (like flashing blue or red).
- Loose items that could fly off and hit another vehicle.
We’ve helped folks who’ve had wreaths fly off mid-drive and even one person whose tinsel clogged their AC vents. Don’t be that driver.
Stick to Safe and Secure Decorations
Let’s talk about the right kind of festive. You can still go big—just go smart. Use car-safe adhesive strips or magnets, and always test them at low speeds first to make sure everything stays in place.
Here are some safe and popular ideas:
- Magnetic reindeer antlers and red noses.
- LED light strips that plug into your 12V socket (not wrapped around mirrors or grills).
- Window decals and clings (no tape, trust us).
- Interior lights or plush toys on the dashboard (secured, not loose).
Be sure to remove anything that creates wind resistance or could block your license plate. If something comes loose at 70 MPH, it won’t be festive—it’ll be a hazard.
Don’t Let Decorations Drain Your Battery
We’ve had several Windcrest towing calls over the years that start with, “I just put a few lights on, and now my car won’t start.” Holiday decorations, especially those that use your car battery or plug into your cigarette lighter, can drain your power faster than you think.
To avoid battery trouble:
- Use battery-powered lights when possible.
- Turn everything off when the engine isn’t running.
- Avoid using multiple plug-in accessories at once.
Running out of battery juice in the middle of a light parade is not the kind of memory you want this season.
Watch for Flammable Materials
Tinsel looks great. Until it melts. If you’re using any decorations near lights, heaters, or the engine, be mindful of materials. Plastic, foil, and fabric can melt or catch fire if they get too hot.
Stick to these rules of thumb:
- Keep all decorations away from heat vents and engine parts.
- Never run lights under the hood.
- Avoid spray snow or glitter near air intakes.
If it smells funny or looks smoky, pull over and remove the decorations. Better yet, skip anything with a risk of ignition altogether.
Stay Safe, Stay Festive with Windcrest Towing by Mission Wrecker
At Mission Wrecker, we love a good holiday display as much as anyone, but we also know the risks. Our Windcrest towing team stays busy this time of year, and a surprising number of calls are decoration-related. That’s why we encourage everyone to enjoy the season safely.
Need help on the road this holiday season? Our Windcrest towing team is ready 24/7 to assist. Whether it’s a dead battery from too many lights or a mirror knocked off by a flying ornament, we’ve got your back.
We’ve been serving Texas drivers for years with honest, dependable Windcrest towing service. And yes, we’ve towed cars with candy cane stripes and full sleighs on top. So if your holiday spirit takes a wrong turn, call the Windcrest towing experts who’ve seen it all and can handle it with a smile.
From all of us at Mission Wrecker: drive festive, stay safe, and happy holidays!
FAQ
Can I drive with Christmas lights on my car?
Yes, but only if the lights are legal, do not flash red or blue, and are securely attached. Always check local traffic laws to avoid fines or unsafe conditions.
What are the safest types of car decorations to use?
Magnetic decorations, window clings, and battery-powered lights are the safest. Avoid anything that dangles, obstructs your view, or could detach while driving.
Will holiday decorations void my car insurance?
Decorations typically do not void insurance, but if they cause an accident or damage your car, your insurer may not cover the claim. Check with your provider to be sure.
How fast can I drive with decorations on my car?
Stick to regular speed limits, but use extra caution at highway speeds. Wind pressure can loosen poorly secured items and cause them to fly off.
Can I decorate a leased vehicle for the holidays?
You can decorate a leased vehicle, but use only non-permanent materials. Adhesives, paint, or anything that could leave marks might violate your lease terms.
Are certain holiday decorations considered illegal while driving?
Yes. Any decoration that mimics emergency signals, blocks license plates, or obstructs visibility can be illegal. Stay within traffic safety laws when decorating your car.
