The holiday season is upon us, and for many, Thanksgiving marks the beginning of cherished traditions filled with family, food, and gratitude. However, for some, this time also becomes a journey to reunite with loved ones.
Traveling during Thanksgiving can be an experience filled with its unique charm, offering a blend of excitement, hustle, and joy. But it also can be a dangerous time to travel.
The Facts About Traveling during Thanksgiving
More than 55 million Americans are expected to travel over the Thanksgiving holiday. AAA projects that 49.1 million Americans will drive to their destinations, which has the highest fatality rate of any form of motorized transportation. According to the NSC, in 2021, 514 people died across the U.S. during the Thanksgiving holiday period.
Undoubtedly, the logistics of Thanksgiving travel can be intimidating. However, with planning, the chaos can be managed.
Avoid Getting in A Car Crash
- Plan your trip schedule and be alert to weather conditions. Consider traveling during off-peak hours to avoid the rush and stay updated on any travel advisories or weather forecasts that might affect your journey.
- Have your vehicle ready for the road. Check that the vehicle's battery, fluids, tires, brakes, lights, and electrical equipment are working properly.
- Don't Speed. Prepare for heavy traffic and be patient. Remember that it is one of the busiest weekends of the year to be on the road. Drive cautiously and responsibly.
- Obey traffic rules. Follow traffic signs, wear your seatbelt, and focus on the road. Be a responsible driver.
What To Do in Case of a Car Crash
Unfortunately, even when taking precautions, accidents can still happen. If you get involved in a car crash, follow the steps below:
- Call for help. The biggest priority is the safety and well-being of everyone involved. Additionally, getting a police report from the accident can help you with your case.
- Get a medical evaluation. Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it might be that you’ve suffered injuries such as whiplash or soft-tissue damage that take days to show up.
- Take photos. Some of the most important photos to take are photos of the property damage to your vehicle and to the other vehicle involved as well. Road conditions such as skid marks, bumpers, and weather conditions. Visible bodily injuries such as bruising cuts, and scarring.
- Get the contact and insurance information from everyone involved.
- Get witnesses’ information. Get their names, address, and contact information.
- Talk with an experienced car crash attorney immediately.
Traveling during Thanksgiving can be overwhelming, but if you take the right precautions, it can also be a precious time to make new memories. Whether you're flying across the country or driving for a few hours, we wish you a happy and safe Thanksgiving.
Injured in car crash? Call our attorneys today.
Unfortunately, most auto accidents are not only caused by driver error or driver recklessness, but also most accidents are entirely preventable. If you or someone you love was injured by an aggressive, drunk, or otherwise negligent driver, you deserve to be fully compensated. Contact our experienced car crash attorneys today to arrange a free, initial consultation.