Thanksgiving is a time for turkey, football, and reconnecting with family and friends. But before you get to grandma’s house, you’ll likely spend a good amount of time in traffic, and not the casual Sunday-afternoon kind. Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest and most dangerous times to be on the road. Between crowded highways, distracted drivers, and unpredictable weather, car accidents spike dramatically during the holiday season.
If you’re planning to hit the road this Thanksgiving, it’s smart to be prepared, not just with a pumpkin pie in the backseat, but also with a clear plan in case an accident happens.
Why Thanksgiving Week Is So Dangerous for Drivers
There’s a reason Thanksgiving week often tops the charts for motor vehicle crashes. According to the National Safety Council, the long holiday weekend is associated with a significant increase in both traffic volume and accidents. Here’s why:
- Increased Travel: Millions of Americans travel 50 miles or more during the holiday. That means more cars on the road, many of them filled with families, luggage, pets, and side dishes—none of which help reaction time.
- Distracted Driving: Between GPS directions, texts about arrival times, and keeping an eye on kids in the backseat, distractions are high. Add in fatigue from long drives, and it’s a recipe for mistakes.
- Impaired Driving: Unfortunately, alcohol also plays a role. Thanksgiving Eve, also known as “Blackout Wednesday,” is one of the biggest drinking nights of the year. The result? More impaired drivers are behind the wheel.
- Unfamiliar Routes: Many people travel to places they rarely visit. Navigating unfamiliar roads can lead to missed exits, sudden lane changes, and confusion that increases the risk of crashes.
What to Do Immediately After an Accident, Especially if You’re Out of Town
Being in a car accident is stressful enough. Being in one hundreds of miles from home? That adds another layer of complexity. Here’s what to do if you’re involved in a crash over the holiday:
Check for Injuries
Your safety, and the safety of others, is the top priority. Call 911 immediately if anyone is injured.
Move to a Safe Location
If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic. Use your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Call Law Enforcement
Always report the accident, especially if you’re in an unfamiliar state. A police report can be crucial for insurance claims and legal matters down the road.
Exchange Information
Get the other driver’s name, contact info, license plate, insurance company, and policy number. Take pictures of the vehicles, the scene, and any damage or injuries.
Document Everything
Keep notes on what happened, including time, location, and weather conditions. Your memory may fade after the stress wears off.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay, get checked out. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, don’t show up right away. Having medical records is also helpful if you need to file a personal injury claim later.
How Insurance Complications Increase During the Holidays
You’d think insurance companies would have a holiday spirit, but the reality is a bit more complicated.
- High Claim Volume: More accidents mean more claims. During Thanksgiving, insurance adjusters are often overwhelmed, leading to delays.
- Out-of-State Claims: If you’re in a crash in another state, different laws may apply. This can affect liability, minimum coverage requirements, and how claims are handled.
- Rental Cars and Travel Vehicles: If you’re driving a rental or someone else’s vehicle, figuring out which insurance policy applies can be confusing.
- Uninsured or Underinsured Drivers: Sadly, not everyone carries proper coverage. If you’re hit by someone with little or no insurance, you may face an uphill battle getting compensated, unless you have uninsured motorist coverage.
When to Call a Personal Injury Attorney
Not every fender-bender requires legal help. But there are situations, especially during high-travel holidays, when calling a personal injury attorney is the smart move:
- You’re Injured: Medical bills pile up fast. If you’ve been hurt, an attorney can help you pursue compensation for treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Liability Is Unclear: If there’s a dispute about who caused the accident, don’t try to argue it out on your own. Let a professional step in.
- Insurance Companies Are Dragging Their Feet: If adjusters are dodging your calls or offering lowball settlements, legal help can make all the difference.
- You’re from Out of State: Navigating unfamiliar state laws is tricky. An attorney who knows the local system can guide you and protect your rights.
Stay Safe and Informed This Holiday Season
No one wants their Thanksgiving memories to involve flashing lights and crumpled fenders. But with so many people on the move, accidents do happen, and when they do, being prepared makes a difference. Know your rights, keep your insurance info handy, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a personal injury attorney if things get complicated.
From all of us, drive safely, enjoy your turkey, and take it easy on the mashed potatoes, especially if you’re the one behind the wheel.
Call Glassman and Zissimopulos and our team of dedicated attorneys today. (352) 505-4515 or Toll-Free at (844) 787-2543. When you call, you will be able to speak with a lawyer. This is our commitment to you.
