New Jersey Car Accident Lawyers: Thanksgiving Travel Safety

The Thanksgiving holiday travel period is considered to begin on Wednesday, November 23 and end on Sunday, November 27. This year, it is estimated that 11 percent more Americans will be travelling compared to last year, with 94 percent reaching their destination by car. This is the time of year where we want to focus on our families, and there are many things to consider that can help us all stay safe and avoid personal injuries this holiday.

Tips to Avoid a Car Accident This Thanksgiving

• Plan around travel patterns. Thanksgiving Day is the busiest holiday for travel, and more drivers increases the risk for car accidents, so be sure to use extra caution.

• Plan around the weather. Watch the forecast prior to traveling, and know whether you can expect ice, snow, or other inclement weather. Remember that the weather can change dramatically over the course of your trip.

• Prepare your vehicle. Check your windshield wipers, wiper fluid and antifreeze levels, and have your radiator and cooling systems serviced in advanced.

• Check your emergency kit. You should have a flashlight, cell phone charger, radio, blanket, jumper cables, first aid kit, water, fire extinguisher, non-perishable foods (like nuts and energy bars), maps, a tire repair kit, ice scraper, clothes, and flares in your trunk at all times.

• Wear a seat belt at all times. Seat belts reduce the risk of fatality by 45 percent.

• Do not drink and drive.

• Do not drive drowsy; it can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Have a good night’s sleep before your trip.

• Avoid distractions such as cell phones. Not only is cell phone use while driving extremely dangerous, it is illegal as well.

• Use a GPS to avoid getting lost.

• Plan several steps ahead in your journey so that there are no unexpected sharp turns, exits, or risky merges.

• Try to avoid driving altogether if you are ill.

• Make frequent stops while traveling, and if there are multiple passengers in the car, rotate drivers.

• Never follow too closely behind another vehicle.

• Make sure to use your headlights in rainy weather, and to turn them on at dusk.

• Make sure your gas tank is full before your trip.

New Jersey Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr Pursue Compensation for Injured Victims of Car Accidents

There will always be negligent drivers on the road. Over the holidays, many people are drinking and driving, and texting family and friends about their plans while their eyes should be on the road ahead. If you have been injured as a result of a car accident with a negligent driver, the committed New Jersey car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr will fight to hold the responsible parties accountable and win you the maximum amount of compensation for your injuries.

To discuss your case, call our Highland Park, New Jersey offices at 877-249-4600 or complete our online contact form today. We proudly serve clients in New Brunswick, Edison, Somerset, South River, Sayreville, Metuchen, East Brunswick, South Plainfield, Fords, Middlesex, Old Bridge, Iselin, Bound Brook, Perth Amboy, and Colonia, New Jersey.