Thanksgiving Travel Safety
Thanksgiving is the most traveled holiday in the United States. As travel peaks from the Wednesday before Thanksgiving through the following Monday, the risks and number of serious and fatal car accidents increase dramatically. AAA predicts that over 54 million Americans will hit the road over the Thanksgiving weekend, traveling an average of 50 miles or more. The country’s major highways, interstates, and roadways will be jammed with carloads of families traveling to see loved ones.
Thanksgiving Travel Tips
Taking precaution when traveling over the Thanksgiving holiday can significantly reduce the chance of becoming involved in a serious or fatal car accident. The National Safety Council (NSC) and AAA recommend the following tips for a safe journey:
- Rest before you travel. Drowsy driving can be equivalent to drunk driving. Slowed reaction times, lack of focus, and falling asleep at the wheel can have catastrophic results.
- Check the weather. Forecasts can change dramatically the farther you travel from home. Be prepared to leave early or wait out a storm before embarking to your destination.
- Put down your phone. Distracted driving is the number one cause of serious and fatal car accidents. Talking on the phone, texting, and adjusting navigation equipment requires you to take your attention off the road. A driver traveling at 55 miles per hour that takes their attention off the road for a mere five seconds is equivalent to traveling the length of a football field blindfolded.
- Fuel up and check engines and fluids before your trip. Do a safety check on your vehicle that includes tires, brake fluid, window washer fluid, oil, and water levels to ensure your car is in top condition and safe to drive.
- Buckle up. Ensure that the driver and all passengers use their seatbelts properly.
- Designate a driver before anyone drinks alcoholic beverages. Be sure the designated driver is responsible and fully understands the importance of abstaining from alcohol during the celebrations.
- Rotate drivers during long trips. If there are other available drivers in the car, be sure to rotate to increase focus and reduce fatigue.
- Make frequent stops. Getting out of the car to stretch, walk, or use the restroom can help drivers get a second wind and reduce eye fatigue.
- Obey local speed laws. Speeding significantly increases the risk for a serious accident for everyone on the road.
- Be prepared. Always travel with a few blankets, water bottles, snacks, and flares in the trunk to use in the event of an emergency. Getting stuck in heavy snow, roadblocks, and accidents can prevent you from leaving your vehicle for an extended time. Packing snacks, water, and things to keep you warm can protect you from the elements.
Highland Park Personal Injury Lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr Represent Victims of Car Accidents
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, call the Highland Park personal injury lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr at 732-537-8570 or contact us online to schedule a consultation today. Our Highland Park, New Jersey offices serve clients in New Brunswick, Somerset, Piscataway, Edison, South River, Sayreville, Metuchen, East Brunswick, South Plainfield, Fords, Middlesex, Old Bridge, Iselin, Bound Brook, Perth Amboy, and Colonia.
