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What Thanksgiving Driving Tips Should I Follow?

November 19, 2021
driving thanksgiving

Thanksgiving kicks off the holiday season. Filled with fun, family, and food, Thanksgiving break remains one of the busiest times for travel. However, Thanksgiving also remains one of the most dangerous times to drive.

Each year, over 50 million people travel for Thanksgiving, and most people travel by car. More people on the road means more car accidents and injuries. For this reason, it is important that you review driving safety tips before you travel for Thanksgiving. Listed below are some ways you can stay safe on the holiday.

Assign a Designated Driver

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), about 515 may die on roads this Thanksgiving holiday period, which is the most deaths since 2007. Many Thanksgiving accidents are caused by alcohol.

If you plan to drink on Thanksgiving, drive with someone who will remain sober. Remember that you can become impaired even after one or two drinks. If you do not have a designated driver, have a rideshare service take you home.

Drive in Daylight

After turning back the clocks in early November, you may not be able to drive entirely in daylight during Thanksgiving break. However, you should do your best to spend the bulk of your driving time when the sun is out. During the daytime, it is easier to spot hazards on the road.

Check the Weather Forecast

Before you drive, you should look at the weather forecast, including the radar. Knowing what to expect makes you a safe driver. Plus, you can bring along extra blankets, gear, and other items in case you get stuck in poor weather. If the weather seems particularly dangerous, it is best not to drive at all.

Expect High Volumes of Traffic

It is important to remember that you will not be the only driver on the road on Thanksgiving. You might be surprised at how congested certain areas can become. Plenty of people drive from house to house on Thanksgiving and throughout the weekend. Therefore, plan for high volumes of traffic. You should also have an alternative route planned.

Watch Out for Distracted Drivers

Many drivers text and talk on their phones. This Thanksgiving, watch closely for distracted drivers. You might spot a driver veering across the yellow lines, or a driver might change lanes suddenly without putting on a turn signal. The best way to handle a distracted driver is to keep enough distance between your vehicles.

Stick to the Speed Limit

Speeding is dangerous. If you are in an unfamiliar area, drive cautiously until you see a posted speed limit sign. If you have to drive in poor weather, you should adjust your speed accordingly.

What Should I Do After a Thanksgiving Accident?

Unfortunately, you can be a safe driver and still get in an accident on Thanksgiving. After an accident, it is important to remain calm. You should also call 911, get medical treatment, exchange information with the other driver, and refrain from admitting fault. In the event that you are seriously hurt, you may want to contact a lawyer. A lawyer can help you understand your situation from a legal perspective.

Chester County Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Can Help You Understand Your Rights After a Serious Holiday Collision

Thanksgiving is a great time to gather with loved ones, but it is also a dangerous holiday for motorists. If you have been injured in a collision, contact our Chester County car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. today. Call us at 610-565-3701 or fill out our online form for an initial consultation. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.