Thanksgiving Eve: Staying Safe on One of the Riskiest Nights for Road Travel
Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family, express gratitude, and celebrate. However, Thanksgiving Eve, also known as “Blackout Wednesday,” has become a notorious night for increased road hazards. This day sees a sharp rise in impaired driving, putting both motorists and pedestrians at greater risk. At LA Law Group, we want to help you understand the reasons behind the heightened danger on Thanksgiving Eve and equip you with the knowledge to stay safe. And if an unfortunate accident occurs, we’re here to help protect your rights and pursue fair compensation.
Why Thanksgiving Eve Is Particularly Dangerous
- Rise in Alcohol Consumption: Thanksgiving Eve has become a popular night for social gatherings as friends and family reconnect. Many take this as an opportunity to celebrate, often leading to increased alcohol consumption. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that nearly 30% of fatal crashes during Thanksgiving involve an impaired driver. With bars and restaurants reporting peak sales, many drivers misjudge their level of intoxication and drive while impaired, endangering themselves and others on the road.
- Heavier Traffic: Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel holidays in the U.S., with millions of people taking to the roads. The combination of crowded highways, late-night driving, and impaired drivers raises the risk of accidents. Congested roads and potential inclement weather create challenging conditions that increase the likelihood of collisions.
- Younger, High-Risk Drivers: Studies show that younger adults are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as impaired driving, especially on Thanksgiving Eve. College students returning home for the holiday often celebrate by meeting friends at bars, adding to the uptick in alcohol-related incidents.
- Fatigue and Distractions: Many travelers drive long distances after work, leading to fatigue and increased likelihood of distraction. Whether it’s checking directions, interacting with passengers, or dealing with the stress of travel, these distractions contribute significantly to accidents.
Tips to Stay Safe on Thanksgiving Eve
To help ensure a safe journey, consider these precautions:
- Plan Ahead: If you plan to drink, arrange for a designated driver, use a ride-share service, or consider staying overnight to avoid driving under the influence.
- Avoid Peak Times: Late at night is when traffic is heaviest, and impaired driving incidents are most common. Travel during daylight hours whenever possible.
- Stay Alert: Remain vigilant for erratic drivers and maintain a safe following distance. Avoid interactions with drivers who seem impaired or fatigued.
- Buckle Up: Wearing a seatbelt is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself in the event of a collision. Seatbelt use is estimated to save thousands of lives each year, according to the NHTSA.
If You’re Involved in an Accident on Thanksgiving Eve
If an accident happens, taking immediate steps to protect your rights can be crucial for your recovery and financial security.
- Prioritize Safety and Health: Check for injuries and call emergency services if needed. Move to a safe location if possible to prevent additional accidents.
- Contact the Police: Even for minor accidents, a police report is valuable evidence when seeking compensation or pursuing legal action.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Gather witness information if available, as this documentation can be invaluable if you need to work with a car accident attorney.
- Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries may not show symptoms right away. Seeing a doctor promptly ensures your health and creates a medical record, which can support your case if you need to file a claim.
- Consult an Experienced Attorney: Navigating the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming. An experienced car accident attorney can help you understand your rights and build a strong case. Whether you’ve suffered minor injuries or more severe consequences, having the support of a trusted attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim.
How LA Law Group Can Help
If you’re involved in an accident on Thanksgiving Eve, LA Law Group is here to support you. Our experienced team has a proven track record in handling personal injury cases, from car accidents to more severe injuries. We’re dedicated to securing fair compensation for our clients, covering medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
The holiday season should be a time of celebration, not stress. If you’ve been injured, contact LA Law Group for a consultation to discuss your case and options. We’re here to provide compassionate guidance and strong representation so you can focus on your recovery.
Stay Safe This Thanksgiving Eve
Thanksgiving Eve brings heightened dangers on the road due to increased alcohol consumption, crowded highways, and other risk factors. By taking precautions, you can help protect yourself and others. And should an accident occur, know that our team at LA Law Group is here to help you navigate the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve. Wishing you a safe and joyful holiday season!
Resources:
- Thanksgiving Eve – Traffic Safety Marketing (NHTSA)
- Buckle Up. Every Trip. Every Time. – Traffic Safety Marketing (NHTSA)
- Click It or Ticket – Traffic Safety Marketing (NHTSA)
