Turkey Day is one of the busiest travel days of the year. One report shows that at least 47 percent of American consumers will hit the road this year to share the Thanksgiving holiday with family and friends. That means millions of motorists on U.S. roadways will be driving toward their holiday destinations.
Unfortunately, that also means many reckless drivers may be between you and your loved ones. Statistics from the National Safety Council show a spike in accidents and fatalities around the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
The legal team at Deering Hedrick wants to help keep you and your family safe this Thanksgiving. Here’s how planning can lead to safe travels this holiday season.
Plan for the Weather
A plan of action is the best way to help you and your family avoid an accident during the busy Thanksgiving travel rush. Inclement weather conditions can make an outing to grandma’s house a nightmare. Plan for possible headaches by checking weather forecasts before heading out for the holidays. You can also get up-to-date road condition information at 511 Virginia. If snow and ice are in the forecast, consider delaying your travel plans until road conditions improve. Friends and family would rather have a belated celebration than celebrate the holidays from a hospital room.
Plan to Drive Sober
The eggnog and wine tend to flow freely during Thanksgiving celebrations. Although you may want to raise a glass to toast the holidays, avoid drinking and driving. Plan accordingly and designate a sober driver to take you home following your Thanksgiving feast. You can also prepare by arranging a rideshare service or taxi to help you get home safely. If driving is not an option, ask your host if they have extra room to accommodate an overnight guest before you arrive. Planning can help you avoid a tragic drunk driving accident this holiday season.
Pack an Emergency Kit
Expect the unexpected and pack an emergency kit. A well-stocked emergency roadside kit should include things like blankets, jackets, emergency lights or flares, non-perishable food items, water, a first-aid kit, an ice scraper, jumper cables, reflective triangles, and a phone charger. Having these items in your car ahead of time can spare you a lot of headaches if you are suddenly caught in a storm, stuck on the side of the road, or in an accident.
Get Your Rest
Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Driving while fatigued impacts cognition, impairs judgment, and slows reaction time. Like drunk driving, drowsy driving can lead to devastating accidents and fatalities. If you know you are getting ready for a big Thanksgiving road trip, plan to get plenty of rest the night before. Relax, unwind, and take a few deep breaths. Going on a road trip with family or friends may be stressful, but prioritize relaxation and sleep so you are ready for the journey ahead. Use the buddy system and switch between drivers so everyone can rest and recharge during the long drive.
Contact an Experienced Virginia Beach Car Accident Lawyer for Help
You can follow the Boy Scout motto and always be prepared. However, that doesn’t mean other drivers will heed that good advice, too. If you are injured by a careless driver this Thanksgiving holiday, contact a skilled Virginia Beach car crash lawyer. They can help you pursue the compensation you deserve after being injured by someone else’s wrongdoing.
Call our firm at 757-383-6848 today. You can arrange a complimentary legal consultation with a knowledgeable attorney from Deering Hedrick today. Let’s talk about how we can help you get the money you deserve.
