Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday for family and friends to get together and celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. It is also one of the most dangerous times to be on the road. From 2012 to 2016, more than 800 people died in drunk driving accidents during the Thanksgiving holiday period. Thanksgiving also poses an increased risk of car accidents because of the influx of road trip drivers on highways. If you are planning to travel for Thanksgiving this year, you should know some important tips to keep you and your family safe.
7 Safety Tips to Avoid a Car Accident on Thanksgiving
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Prepare your car for long-distance travel. Before you and your family head out on the road, you should make sure your vehicle is ready for a long drive. Check your wipers and oil, and make sure your radiator and cooling system are functioning properly. Performing a quick maintenance check on your vehicle before your long road trip will prevent many issues that could leave you and your family stranded on the side of the road.
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Know your limits. Many drowsy driving accidents occur on Thanksgiving night after a delicious turkey meal. You should stay hydrated and get plenty of rest before your drive. This will help you drive at your best. Don’t hesitate to pull over if you feel too drowsy to drive.
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Leave early and avoid risks. Try to leave as early as possible to reduce any anxiety and avoid the brunt of traffic congestion. Leaving early is also best if you are traveling in a large group. You will also be less likely to feel sleepy while driving if you leave in the early morning hours.
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Be cautious of the weather. Late November can introduce snowy and icy weather, so you should ensure that everyone is prepared for the elements before getting on the road. Clear your windows and roof of snow to make sure you have the best visibility during your drive. This will also prevent a potential hazard for any drivers behind you.
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Slow down and buckle up. The chance of a car accident during a road trip almost triples if the driver is speeding or driving faster than surrounding traffic. Seat belts can save lives as well, so buckle up to ensure minimal injuries if there happens to be a collision.
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Don’t drink and drive. Driving during a road trip is a large responsibility, and it is up to you as the driver to ensure you are being safe and attentive.
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Understand how to drive near trucks. You are likely to pass many trucks during your road trip travels, and truck accidents are common on long highway drives. Stay aware of large trucks’ blind spots, and pass on the left where the truck’s blind spot is smaller. Try not to cut quickly in front of a truck.
If you experience a car accident during the Thanksgiving holiday due to another driver’s negligence, you should speak with a personal injury attorney who can give you a free case evaluation. Call our Pennsylvania personal injury lawyers at O’Donnell Law Offices today.