Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and celebration. But it’s also one of the busiest travel periods of the year. With people across the country heading to their destinations to reunite with loved ones, roadways become crowded and travel conditions can get challenging.
With millions of travelers expected to take to the highways this year, planning ahead is crucial.
Nationwide Travel Predictions for Thanksgiving Travel
According to AAA, 79.9 million Americans are expected to travel by vehicle over the Thanksgiving holiday this year. This marks an increase in travel compared to previous years, and may be a lasting trend, with a pent-up desire for travel, even years past the pandemic. This is a significant number, and with roads expected to be packed, this is the time to start preparing.
AAA forecasts that Wednesday, November 27th will see the highest volume of travelers, especially between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., when traffic congestion peaks. If you’re hitting the road during these times, be prepared for delays. In fact, interstates near major metropolitan areas like New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Chicago are expected to be 482% busier than normal during rush hour alone. As a result, it’s critical to build extra travel time into your plans and avoid peak travel windows when possible.
This surge in road travel also leads to an increase in accidents. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), an estimated 502 people will die in preventable motor vehicle crashes this Thanksgiving holiday period, with accidents often occurring during peak travel times, especially on Wednesday and Sunday.
The risk of accidents is particularly high due to factors like weather conditions, congested highways, and fatigued or distracted drivers. Alcohol is also a contributing factor, with approximately 35% of all Thanksgiving crashes involving alcohol impairment.
Statewide Travel Predictions for Thanksgiving Travel
In Pennsylvania, PennDOT estimates that the Thanksgiving travel period will result in more than 12,000 accidents on state roadways over the long weekend. Last year, 22 fatalities occurred in crashes over the holiday weekend alone, and another 618 people suffered serious injuries.
Pennsylvania, known for its unpredictable weather in late November, also faces unique risks with slippery roads, especially in mountainous regions. Motorists should always check the weather forecast before traveling and be ready for sudden changes in road conditions, which can increase the likelihood of accidents.
How to Protect Yourself on the Road
Here are a few travel safety tips that can help reduce your risk of accidents and ensure a smoother holiday road trip:
- Leave early and avoid peak hours: If you can, try to travel during non-peak hours to avoid the bulk of traffic congestion.
- Perform a pre-trip vehicle check: Check tire pressure, fluid levels, and brakes before you hit the road. A well-maintained car is less likely to break down on the highway, preventing a potential accident.
- Stay rested and take breaks: Long hours on the road can lead to fatigue. Rest is key to staying alert, so plan to stop every 2 hours to stretch, hydrate, and refuel both yourself and your vehicle.
- Stay aware of weather conditions: Check the weather forecast frequently, especially if you’re traveling through mountainous or rural areas. Rain, snow, or ice can significantly alter road conditions.
- Avoid distractions: Distracted driving remains one of the most significant causes of accidents. Keep your phone out of reach while driving and avoid multitasking behind the wheel.
- Buckle up: Always wear your seatbelt and make sure all passengers are properly restrained.
What to Do if You Have a Car Accident While Traveling
Unfortunately, car accidents can happen despite your best efforts to stay safe. If you’re involved in a car accident during the Thanksgiving holiday, the stress of the situation can be compounded by being far from home. Here are steps to follow if you find yourself in a crash:
- Call emergency services: If you’re involved in a serious crash or anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Ensure that emergency responders are dispatched to the scene to assess the situation.
- Contact your insurance company: After ensuring safety, call your insurance company’s 800-number to report the accident. Your insurance agent will assign a claims adjuster to your case and may provide resources like local tow companies and repair shops.
- Document the scene: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your car’s damage, and any other vehicles involved. Collect contact information from any witnesses as well.
- Know the laws in the state where the accident occurred: Each state has its own traffic laws, so it’s important to be familiar with the rules of the area where the crash occurred. Additionally, you will need to work with your insurance provider based on the policies of both parties involved.
- Consider legal help: If you’ve been injured in the crash, or if your accident involves significant damages, it is wise to consult with an attorney. They can provide guidance on how to proceed with claims and help protect your legal rights.
Navigating the Aftermath of Holiday Car Accidents and Why You Need the Best Car Accident Law Firm
Being involved in a car accident, especially while traveling out of state, can lead to significant stress, medical bills, and lost wages. Having a skilled personal injury lawyer by your side can help ease some of the burdens and increase your chances of receiving fair compensation. At GLS Injury Law, we have years of experience handling car accident claims and helping victims recover the compensation they deserve.
Our firm has been recognized as the top personal injury and accident law firm in Lancaster County and has earned more than 200 five-star reviews. We have successfully recovered over $112 million for our clients, and we are ready to fight for you. Whether you’re in Pennsylvania or traveling across the country, we can help you navigate the aftermath of a crash.
If you’re in need of legal representation, don’t hesitate to contact us. You can start a free consultation online or call us directly at 717-394-3004.
Plan Ahead, Stay Safe, and Enjoy Your Holiday
Thanksgiving travel can be stressful, but with proper planning and safety precautions, you can reduce the chances of being involved in an accident. Stay informed about road conditions, give yourself extra time, and follow best practices to ensure a smooth and safe trip. If you do encounter an unfortunate situation on the road, remember that you have legal resources available to help you recover quickly. From all of us at GLS Injury Law, we wish you safe travels and a happy Thanksgiving!
Be sure to follow these tips, stay safe on the road, and enjoy a worry-free holiday season.
