Written By: Chris Dolan and Allison Stone
I will be traveling quite a long distance this Thanksgiving holiday. Thanksgiving is particularly dangerous because of the number of travelers on the roads. Can I do anything to ensure that I arrive at my destination safely?
-Mary from Oakland, California
Dear Mary,
Over 55 million Americans will travel for Thanksgiving in 2024. Most Thanksgiving travelers (around 49 million) drive to their destinations. Wednesday, November 22nd, will be the busiest day on the roads, with travel times potentially 80% longer than usual in some metro areas.
Driving Hazards & Safety Tips
Thanksgiving travel presents unique challenges for drivers, with increased traffic, potential adverse weather conditions, and distracted driving due to holiday excitement. Long hours on the road can lead to fatigue, significantly increasing accident risks. Conduct a thorough vehicle check before departing to ensure a safe trip, including tire pressure, brakes, and fluid levels. Managing fatigue is also crucial, and drivers should plan regular breaks, share driving responsibilities when possible, and avoid driving during typical sleep hours.
Practice defensive driving, especially given the higher volume of stressed and distracted drivers, as doing so can significantly reduce accident risks. Some defensive driving tactics include maintaining a safe following distance, staying alert to surroundings, and being prepared for sudden stops, slowing, and lane changes. The weather in late November is unpredictable, so be prepared for winter/wet driving conditions. Lastly, drivers should eliminate distractions such as cell phone use, texting, eating while driving, and engaging in heated conversations.
Around Thanksgiving, there is a significant increase in alcohol-related incidents on the roads, and hundreds have lost their lives in Thanksgiving crashes involving drunk drivers. The period from Thanksgiving Eve to the following Sunday is particularly dangerous, with a notable spike in DUI arrests and accidents. The consequences of a DUI are severe and may include fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, and possible jail time, with penalties. Hosts should offer non-alcoholic beverages, arrange for designated drivers or ride-sharing services, and prepare to accommodate overnight guests if necessary to promote and ensure safety during gatherings. Always plan transportation through designated drivers, public transit, or ride-sharing apps.
What To Do if You Are in An Accident
In the unfortunate event you are involved in an accident during Thanksgiving travel, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and follow specific steps to protect yourself. Immediately after the collision, ensure everyone’s safety and call 911 if there are injuries.
Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries. Please obtain contact and insurance information from all parties involved and gather witness names, contact information, and statements. Even if you feel fine initially, seek medical attention promptly, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Contact your insurance company to report the accident but only admit fault or provide detailed statements once you consult a lawyer. It’s advisable to contact a reputable personal injury law firm like Dolan Law Firm as soon as possible. We can guide you through the legal process, help preserve evidence and protect your rights. There are time limits (called statutes of limitations) for filing personal injury claims, so promptly filing claims is essential. Following these steps will protect your legal rights and allow you to pursue fair compensation if necessary.
Prioritizing these safety measures helps to ensure a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving for all. Dolan Law Firm can assist travelers involved in accidents over Thanksgiving and the holidays, and we are here to provide you with legal support any time you are involved in an accident.
Christopher B. Dolan is the owner of the Dolan Law Firm. Allison Stone is a Managing Senior Trial Attorney in our Downtown Los Angeles office. We serve clients from the San Francisco Bay Area and California from our San Francisco, Oakland, Redondo Beach, and Los Angeles offices. Please email any questions and topics for future articles to help@dolanlawfirm.com. Each situation is different, and this column does not constitute legal advice. We recommend consulting with an experienced trial attorney to understand your rights fully.
