With Thanksgiving just around the corner, millions of Americans will be hitting the roads to visit family and friends. While Thanksgiving is a time to relax and enjoy good food and company, it is also a time to be extra careful on the roads. Holiday travel can be hectic and stressful, which can lead to car accidents. In fact, Thanksgiving is one of the deadliest days of the year for car accidents.
Fortunately, by following a few simple Thanksgiving driving tips, you could avoid a car accident while traveling for the holiday.
Drive Defensively
Defensive driving is always good to practice, but it is especially important during busy holiday travel periods. Be extra alert and watch out for other drivers who may be in a hurry or not paying attention.
Do not forget to give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. There is no need to speed or take chances.
Buckle Up Your Seat Belt
Make sure everyone in your vehicle is properly buckled up before setting out on your trip. The seat belt is your best defense against serious injury in the event of an accident.
Check Your Vehicle
Before embarking on a long road trip, it is always a good idea to have your vehicle checked by a professional mechanic. This is especially important if you are planning on doing a lot of driving over the holiday period. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and that all fluid levels are filled. It is also not a bad idea to keep an emergency kit in your trunk just in case you run into trouble while you are on the road.
Plan Your Route Ahead of Time
One of the best ways to stay safe on the roads during the Thanksgiving travel rush is to plan your route ahead of time. With so many people on the roads, traffic can get congested, especially in major cities. By planning your route ahead of time and giving yourself plenty of time to get to your destination, you can avoid getting caught in traffic and putting yourself at risk.
Avoid Distractions While Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents, so it is important to avoid anything that could take your attention away from the road while you are behind the wheel. That means no texting, no talking on the phone, and no fiddling with the radio or GPS system. If you need to do any of those things, pull over to a safe location first.
Watch Out for Drunk Drivers
The night before Thanksgiving is one of the biggest drinking holidays of the year, which means there are unfortunately more drunk drivers on the roads. Be on the lookout for signs of drunk driving, such as swerving, speeding, or braking erratically. If you see a driver exhibiting these behaviors, keep your distance and report them to authorities if possible.
Mount Holly Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Office of David S. Rochman Get Results
Thanksgiving is one of the most heavily traveled holidays in the country. Millions of people hit the road by car, and that means there could be more accidents. However, even if you follow every tip and drive defensively, you might still find yourself in an accident. If you become injured in a Thanksgiving crash, you can speak with our Mount Holly car accident lawyer at the Law Office of David S. Rochman. Call us at 856-751-2345 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, we serve clients in Burlington County and the surrounding areas.