Thanksgiving Travel Safety Tips

Whether you plan to travel by plane, train, or automobile this Thanksgiving holiday, make sure you prepare to arrive safely. AAA predicts that over 40 million people will be on the roadways over Thanksgiving weekend this year, which is an 11 percent increase from 2018. Ninety-four percent of all travelers will be traveling by car. As traffic increases, so does the risk for car accidents. Preparing for your trip ahead of the rush can help ensure that you arrive safely.

Prepare for a Safe Journey

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), AAA, and the American Red Cross have issued travel safety tips aimed at making your Thanksgiving holiday a safe one.

Before the Journey:

• Prepare your vehicle by inspecting tires, water levels, windshield washer fluid, brakes, and the engine.

• Map out your route before you travel to avoid consulting with onboard navigation systems while driving.

• Put blankets, non-perishable food items, and water bottles in your trunk in case you get stuck in inclement weather.

• Alert your family and friends of your travel plans so that they know when you are expected to arrive.

• Check the weather conditions in the areas you will be driving. Avoid areas that expect dangerous weather conditions.

• Get plenty of rest to avoid drowsy driving.

• Make sure all seat belts are operable and in good condition.

• Leave plenty of time to reach your destination.

While Driving:

• Avoid distracted driving at all costs; this includes cell phone use, texting, onboard navigation systems, and infotainment systems. Pull over to the side of the road if you need to engage in these activities.

• Be sure to stop and eat if you need to do so since eating and drinking while driving is dangerous.

• Keep passengers from arguing, shouting, or misbehaving while you are driving to avoid distraction.

• Ensure that all passengers and the driver wear their seat belt at all times.

• Keep children in child restraint seats until they reach the maximum age, weight, and height restrictions.

• Leave pets at home, when possible. Animals often create distraction when they get car sick or agitated.

• If you encounter high winds, heavy rain, or snow and ice conditions, pull over and adjust your travel plans as needed. Being a day late to your destination is better than not arriving at all.

• Take regular breaks to get out of the car and stretch your legs on long trips.

• Take turns driving with another qualified passenger, when possible.

• If you feel drowsy while driving, safely pull into a parking lot or off the road to rest before continuing the trip.

• Never drive under the influence of alcohol, prescription medications, over the counter medications, or recreational drugs.

With attention to just a few details, you and your loved ones can enjoy a safe and happy holiday.

Highland Park Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr Promote Safe Thanksgiving Travel

If you are involved in a car accident over the Thanksgiving holiday, call the Highland Park car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr at 877-249-4600 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today. Located in Highland Park, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout New Brunswick, Somerset, Piscataway, Edison, South River, Sayreville, Metuchen, East Brunswick, South Plainfield, Fords, Middlesex, Old Bridge, Iselin, Bound Brook, Perth Amboy, and Colonia.