Thanksgiving weekend brings joy as families and friends gather to celebrate, but it also brings a significant increase in traffic on the roads. With so many people traveling long distances, often under time pressure, car accidents become more frequent during this holiday period. Heavy traffic, unfamiliar routes, and even impaired driving after celebrations can make the roads particularly dangerous. Staying safe while traveling is a top priority, especially during one of the busiest weekends of the year.
How Often Do Auto Accidents Occur on Thanksgiving Weekend?
Auto accidents are particularly common during Thanksgiving weekend, with alarming statistics highlighting the dangers on the road. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), between 2018 and 2022, 833 people died in crashes involving a drunk driver or motorcycle rider with a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher during the Thanksgiving holiday. In 2022 alone, there were 184 fatalities from crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers. Among those, drivers ages 21-34 were overrepresented, accounting for 32% of the fatalities. Additionally, many lives could have been saved with seat belts. During the 2021 Thanksgiving weekend, 361 passenger vehicle occupants were killed, with 52% of those killed at night and 46% during the day not wearing seat belts.
What Are Common Causes of These Auto Accidents?
Car accidents tend to spike during Thanksgiving weekend due to a combination of factors that make driving more dangerous. Some of the main reasons for this increase include:
- Increased traffic: With millions of people traveling to visit family and friends, the roads are more congested, leading to a higher chance of accidents.
- Long-distance travel: Many drivers are on unfamiliar routes for extended periods, increasing the risk of making errors or becoming fatigued.
- Impaired driving: Thanksgiving is a time for celebration, and unfortunately, this can lead to more alcohol-impaired drivers on the road.
- Distracted driving: With families traveling together, distractions inside the vehicle can increase, making it harder to focus on the road.
- Bad weather: November can bring unpredictable weather, including rain or snow, making roads more hazardous.
Safety Tips to Reduce Your Risk of an Accident
Thanksgiving weekend can be a hectic time on the roads, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting into an auto accident. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind during your holiday travels:
- Plan ahead: Try to leave early or later in the day to avoid peak traffic times, which can help reduce stress and the likelihood of accidents in heavy congestion.
- Stay alert: Long drives can lead to fatigue. Be sure to take breaks every couple of hours to stretch, grab a snack, and stay refreshed. If possible, switch drivers to avoid fatigue.
- Avoid distractions: Keep your focus on the road by avoiding phone use and minimizing distractions inside the car. Have a passenger handle navigation or phone calls when necessary.
- Check your vehicle: Before hitting the road, make sure your vehicle is in good working order. Check tire pressure, oil levels, and ensure your lights are functioning properly.
- Never drive impaired: If you plan to consume alcohol, designate a sober driver or use a rideshare service
.
- Be mindful of the weather: As winter approaches, the likelihood of bad weather and dangerous driving conditions increases. To the extent you can, avoid driving in dangerous weather and use extra caution if you do.
What to Do If You Are Involved in an Accident
If you’re involved in a car accident, your safety is the top priority. First, check for injuries and call 911 for emergency assistance. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe area out of traffic. Exchange information with the other driver, including names, contact details, and insurance information. Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. It’s also helpful, although not essential, to file a police report, which can serve as critical evidence for your insurance claim or legal case. Also, seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries might not be immediately apparent. If you need help navigating the legal process after an accident, contact Simeone & Miller for a free consultation.
Stay Safe on the Road This Thanksgiving
At Simeone & Miller LLP, we understand the challenges that follow a car accident, especially during busy holiday weekends like Thanksgiving. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, we’ll help you navigate your legal options. Contact us today for a free consultation.
