The Dangers Of Driving On Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is one of the most dangerous holidays for driving due to:

Thousands of people are injured or killed in crashes during the Thanksgiving weekend annually. According to the AAA and the National Safety Council (NSC), Thanksgiving travel spikes result in a surge of serious and fatal car accidents.

You may be able to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other costs if someone else caused your crash. To do this, you must prove the other driver was at fault. A car accident lawyer can gather evidence, handle the insurance company, and pursue a fair settlement or take your case to court if needed.

Understanding the most common causes of Thanksgiving accidents, reviewing safety strategies, and knowing what to do after a crash can help reduce risks and support your recovery after an incident.

If you or a loved one suffers injuries in a Thanksgiving-related crash, our personal injury lawyers here at AK Law Firm can help you explore your legal options. Call us at (888) 488-1931 for a free initial consultation.

At A Glance: Why Thanksgiving Travel Is So Dangerous For Drivers

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest and most dangerous times to be on the road. Although the holiday is on a Thursday, traffic builds up from Wednesday through Sunday. In 2024, AAA expected nearly 80 million people to travel for Thanksgiving, with over 71 million driving. That’s more cars, more delays, and more chances for crashes.

The National Safety Council estimated in 2024 that 502 people could die in car crashes over Thanksgiving weekend and that more than 57,000 could be hurt badly enough to need medical care. Over the years, this holiday has been especially deadly. In 2021, 521 people died, the highest Thanksgiving total since 2007. California is one of the deadliest states during this time, with an average of 48 traffic deaths each year over Thanksgiving.

Here are some of the biggest Thanksgiving driving dangers:

If you suffered injuries in a crash during Thanksgiving travel, you may get compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other costs. These injuries may include brain injuries, spinal cord damage, internal bleeding, fractures, whiplash, and other serious conditions.

To do this, you’ll need to show that someone else’s actions caused the accident. A car accident lawyer can help you collect evidence, deal with the insurance company, and work towards a fair result.

Here’s a quick look at traffic deaths during Thanksgiving from 2017 to 2022:

NSC data show that 13.50% of November accidents occur during the Thanksgiving period, indicating a high frequency of accidents during this time.

Car accident lawyers can assist individuals and families affected by these crashes, helping them understand their legal options in seeking potential compensation.

What Are The Major Causes Of Thanksgiving Driving Accidents?

Traffic peaks between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. Major cities experience gridlock as people travel for dinner gatherings.

• Worst travel days:
  • Wednesday Afternoon Before Thanksgiving — Traffic peaks as many travelers hit the road after work, leading to heavy congestion on major highways.
  • Thanksgiving Day (11 a.m.–3 p.m.) — Midday traffic increases as people travel to family gatherings and events.
• Best times to drive:
  • Thanksgiving Evening — Roads are typically clearer once celebrations are underway.
  • Friday Before 11 a.m. or After 8 p.m. — Travel may be lighter during these off-peak hours, avoiding Black Friday congestion.
• Worst return day:
  • Sunday After Thanksgiving — Many people are returning home at the same time after the holiday.

Heavy congestion, combined with driver impatience and stress, leads to a higher frequency and severity of traffic accidents.

Here are some of the most common reasons for accidents during this period:

Bumper-To-Bumper Traffic

Is Thanksgiving a good day to travel by car? Sadly, no. Thanksgiving Day traffic peaks between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Entering or exiting major cities during this time results in significant congestion, as many people try to get home by dinnertime. However, evening traffic may be lighter as many people stay home for get-togethers. Knowing when and where congestion is likely to arise can help reduce holiday traffic headaches.

So, what are the worst days to travel after Thanksgiving? According to INRIX, a company specializing in transportation data and insights, the worst times to travel by car are Tuesday afternoon to evening (1 p.m. to 7 p.m.) and Wednesday afternoon (1 p.m. to 5 p.m.). The ideal time to drive is on Thanksgiving Day when interstates and highways are generally free of congestion.

Sunday is often the busiest travel day, but Wednesday is also notoriously hectic. To avoid peak traffic, try not to travel between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Friday or 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Increased traffic, along with other factors, creates a recipe for disaster on the roads during the Thanksgiving holiday. Whether it’s a distracted or impaired driver, an aggressive maneuver, or slick roads from bad weather, overcrowded roadways make every situation more dangerous.

Drunk Driving And “Blackout Wednesday”

Thanksgiving Eve, also known as “Blackout Wednesday,” is one of the biggest drinking nights of the year. Many people go out for drinks before the holiday, which leads to more drunk drivers on the road. These instances may lead to a Blackout Wednesday DUI crash if some people still choose to drive after drinking.

On Thanksgiving Day, men usually drink about three alcoholic drinks on average, and women drink about two. Around 3% of men and just over 2% of women said they blacked out during Thanksgiving celebrations.

In 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that 33% of the 92 drivers who died in Thanksgiving Eve crashes were drunk. That same year, 174 people were killed in crashes involving drivers with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or higher. Between 2019 and 2023, drunk driving accidents during the Thanksgiving holiday caused 868 deaths.

Drunk drivers can cause serious accidents that lead to brain injuries, broken bones, or even death. Even if you don’t drink, there’s still a higher chance of getting into a holiday weekend car accident with an impaired driver.

Speeding

Holiday stress causes some drivers to speed to make up for delays. In 2023, over 150,000 speeding violations occurred on Thanksgiving Day, mostly between 10 a.m. and noon.

Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to stop or avoid hazards. Speeding-related accidents often result in catastrophic injuries, such as spinal damage or amputations. For instance, there were three fatalities in Los Angeles on Thanksgiving Day in 2023 due to drivers who were either speeding or driving under the influence, NBC4 News reported.

Reckless Driving Behaviors

Many drivers behave recklessly during the holiday weekend due to stress, traffic delays, or a sense of urgency. Common reckless driving behaviors include:

• Tailgating and aggressive lane changes.
• Weaving through traffic.
• Speeding to catch flights or meet dinner schedules.
• Ignoring traffic signals or red lights.

Verra Mobility reported nearly 57,000 red-light violations during the 2023 Thanksgiving weekend alone.

Driving Distractions

Distracted driving is a major concern during Thanksgiving and throughout the holiday season. Drivers often lose focus due to stress, long travel times, or the demands of multitasking while driving.

Common accident-causing distractions include:

• Texting or calling loved ones.
• Searching for Black Friday deals.
• Adjusting the GPS or music.
• Managing children in the backseat.

Distracted drivers may miss stop signs, drift between lanes, or react too slowly to hazards, increasing the risk of an accident. Staying alert and focused is one of the most important tips in our Holiday Season Driving Guide, especially since roads are crowded and conditions are unpredictable.

If a distracted driver causes a crash, personal injury lawyers can help victims understand their rights and explore options for pursuing compensation.

Driving Over Long Distances Can Lead To Fatigue

Another major factor behind car crashes over Thanksgiving is driver fatigue. Long-distance travel, typically exceeding 50 miles, can lead to exhaustion and reduced alertness. Early morning and late-night driving further contribute to fatigue, leaving drivers worn out after a day of festivities with friends and family.

Fatigued driving can be as dangerous as drunk driving, impairing senses and coordination. If you’re involved in a car accident, ensure your injuries are properly diagnosed and treated by medical professionals. Your medical records and bills can serve as critical evidence when pursuing compensation for your damages.

Rain And Snow Increase The Risk Of Accidents

In Los Angeles, most November days reach over 60°F, with around six days climbing into the 80s. Occasionally, temperatures may even briefly exceed 90°F. While Southern California remains relatively dry in November, Northern and mountainous regions may face rain or snow. For example, a major storm in 2024 dumped 20 inches of snow on Soda Springs, CA.

Weather-related crash risks include:

• Reduced traction on wet or icy roads.
• Decreased visibility during storms.
• Longer stopping distances.

Even light rain can lead to hydroplaning or rear-end collisions. In any case, unpredictable weather makes roads more hazardous during the holidays, increasing the danger of driving. Rain causes more accidents than other adverse weather conditions, as it reduces pavement friction and affects vehicle traction, stability, and maneuverability.

Where Are The Most Dangerous Places To Drive During Thanksgiving?

Finder US ranks California as the most dangerous state to drive in during the Thanksgiving holiday, followed by Texas and Florida.

Congestion in major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Sacramento frequently results in longer delays and increased crash risks.

USA Today reported that the busiest travel corridors on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving include:

• Los Angeles — I-5 South, Colorado St. to Florence Ave.
• Atlanta — I-85 South; Clairmont Rd. to MLK Jr. Dr.
• Chicago — I-290 West, Morgan St. to Wolf Rd.
• New York — I-278 South, I-495 to 6th Ave.

What Are The Best Thanksgiving Driving Safety Tips?

If you decide to travel by road for Thanksgiving this year, consider taking certain safety measures to prevent car accidents. Whether you’re the one behind the wheel or sitting in the passenger seat, the following Thanksgiving driving safety tips can help protect you and your family:

• Schedule Your Trip Accordingly — Most major cities see traffic jams around 3–6 p.m. the night before Thanksgiving Day. Do your best to travel during off-peak hours and be prepared for potential traffic congestion.
• Keep Your Car in Good Condition — Check your tires, brakes, and headlights, especially if you plan to drive at night.
• Check the Weather Forecast — If you see snow on the horizon in a state that experiences winter weather, change your travel plans to account for slower speeds on snowy or icy roadways.
• Drive Defensively — Follow the Three-Second Rule: When the car in front of you passes a road sign, wait three seconds before you reach it. Additionally, keep an eye on your mirrors to stay aware of surrounding vehicles.
• Always Buckle Up — Buckling up remains one of the safest options for drivers and passengers to save lives. The NHTSA stated that seatbelts are 45% effective in preventing front-seat passenger fatalities in car crashes. They further noted that in 2023, failure to wear a seatbelt contributed to 44% of the 309 traffic fatalities during the Thanksgiving holiday.
• Never Drink and Drive — If you plan to drink, have a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service like Uber, Lyft, or a taxi. If you live too far, consider booking a hotel room for the night and picking up your car the next morning. Staying sober behind the wheel can help prevent accidents.
• Give Other Drivers Space — Since Thanksgiving brings heavy traffic, avoid aggressive driving and give other drivers space to pass. Avoid drivers who appear to be intoxicated, tired, or distracted whenever possible.

What To Do After A Car Accident On Thanksgiving

If you sustained injuries in a Thanksgiving accident, you can take specific steps to protect yourself. You may be able to seek financial compensation with the help of car accident lawyers if another party’s negligence caused the accident. Follow these steps to safeguard your well-being and rights:

• Prioritize Your Safety — If possible, move to a safe location, turn on your hazard lights, and set up warning triangles to help prevent further accidents.
• Call 911 — Ask for assistance immediately if you’re involved in an accident, especially if there are injuries or significant damage. Request law enforcement officers and medical responders to assist with the situation.
• Document the Scene — Gather evidence at the accident scene, including photos of vehicle damage and road conditions, statements and contact details of witnesses, and information from police reports.
• Seek Medical Care — Let paramedics evaluate you, but get further medical attention at the hospital. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan and document your progress. Most importantly, keep all medical records.
• Talk to Experienced Attorneys — Consider hiring a car accident lawyer to help navigate your claim and explore potential options based on the specifics of your situation. Instead of handling insurance adjusters alone, you might benefit from having a legal professional advocate on your behalf and support your efforts to seek fair compensation.

Some insurance companies may use strategies that limit how much they pay on claims. In some cases, they might offer a settlement that doesn’t fully reflect your losses.

That is why it’s critical not to accept the first offer that comes your way without careful review. Speaking with a lawyer can help you understand whether a proposed settlement is fair and aligned with your case’s value.

Personal injury lawyers can also help you identify and respond to common insurance practices, such as:

• Offering quick settlements before the full extent of injuries is known.
• Minimizing the severity of your injuries or damages.
• Asking to record your statements.
• Requesting signatures on releases prematurely.
• Denying or disputing claims arising from holiday travel crashes.

Legal Options In California After A Thanksgiving Crash

In California, victims injured in Thanksgiving car accidents may have the right to file a personal injury claim if another driver’s negligence caused the crash. Under the state’s negligence laws, a driver can be held financially responsible for injuries and property damage when they fail to exercise reasonable care. Common causes of Thanksgiving-related crashes include:

• Speeding to Reach Holiday Destinations — Many collisions occur on major highways such as the I-5, the I-10, and Highway 99 when drivers exceed posted speed limits or drive too fast in heavy traffic.
• Aggressive Driving — Tailgating, cutting off other vehicles, or weaving through congested routes, such as the I-405 or US-101, can easily lead to multi-vehicle pileups.
• Ignoring Traffic Signals — Rushing through red lights or stop signs at busy intersections increases the risk of severe crashes during the holiday weekend.
• Failure to Yield — Failing to yield to pedestrians or merging vehicles, especially near shopping centers and event areas, often causes Thanksgiving-weekend injuries.
• Driving Under the Influence — DUI-related crashes often rise during the holidays as some motorists drive home from gatherings impaired by alcohol or prescription drugs.
  • Cannabis-Impaired Driving — Since recreational cannabis became legal in California, marijuana-related DUIs have become an emerging risk. Drivers who underestimate cannabis’s effects on reaction time, coordination, and perception can cause serious collisions.

Depending on the situation, these processes may apply:

Filing An Insurance Claim

Filing an insurance claim after a vehicle accident involves contacting your insurance provider and submitting the necessary documents, such as the accident report, photos, and medical records. Car accident claims lawyers recommend including all relevant details about the accident.

Eligibility for insurance claims still depends on liability. In California, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires drivers to carry the following minimum liability insurance:

• $30,000 for bodily injury or death to one individual.
• $60,000 for bodily injury or death to multiple individuals.
• $15,000 for property damage per incident.

In most cases, you can seek compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. If the driver doesn’t have insurance or leaves the scene, you may be able to file a claim through your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, provided you have it in your policy.

In California, this type of coverage is optional. The California Department of Insurance says that insurance companies are required to offer uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage to every policyholder. If you choose not to include it in your policy, you’ll need to sign a waiver to decline it.

Initiating A Personal Injury Lawsuit

If a settlement cannot be reached, legal action might be necessary in certain cases. This involves:

• Presenting crucial evidence.
• Preparing legal documents.
• Possibly appearing in court if the case reaches trial.

A lawyer may be able to guide victims after assessing the available details of their case. They may help determine if filing a personal injury lawsuit is a practical option.

However, assessing liability can be complicated in some cases. There are certain legal aspects to consider. For instance, specific laws may only apply in certain areas. Apart from that, some cases may involve shared fault.

In California, pure comparative negligence applies. In such cases, parties involved may share liability in an accident. To illustrate, if you were found to be 30% at fault, you may still be able to seek 70% of your total damages from the other party.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Dangers Of Driving On Thanksgiving

Driving on Thanksgiving presents unique dangers, including heavy traffic, impaired, and distracted drivers. In this FAQ section, we answer common questions to help you understand your rights and options if you sustained injuries in a traffic accident.

What Are The Dangers Of Driving On Thanksgiving?

Driving on Thanksgiving can be hazardous due to increased traffic and increased risk of reckless driving behavior. Many people travel at the same time, which raises the chance of accidents. Some of the main dangers include:

• Heavy traffic, especially on Tuesday and Wednesday before the holiday.
• Rushed or impatient drivers who are trying to reach their destination.
• Impaired driving, including alcohol or drug use.
• Drowsy driving after long trips or holiday celebrations.
• Distracted driving, such as texting or using GPS.

Traffic usually picks up again on Sunday as people return home. While Thanksgiving Day itself often has lighter traffic, crashes can still happen when drivers are not alert or careful. If you get injured in a holiday-related crash, a California Thanksgiving traffic accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and explore your legal options.

Are DUI Checkpoints Legal On Holidays In CA?

Yes, they are legal. Law enforcement agencies often set up DUI checkpoints during holidays, such as Thanksgiving, to help keep the roads safe. At these checkpoints, officers can briefly stop drivers to check if anyone is driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs.

In California, the Supreme Court allows these checkpoints only if they follow certain legal rules, such as:

• Giving the public advance notice about the checkpoint.
• Clearly marking the checkpoint area.
• Having senior officers present to oversee the operation.
• Using a fair, preplanned method to choose which cars to stop.

If these rules are not followed, any arrests made at the checkpoint could be invalid.

Can I Seek Compensation From A Negligent Family Member For Personal Injury?

It can be difficult to consider seeking compensation from a family member or friend for injuries caused by their negligence, especially during a holiday like Thanksgiving. While filing a personal injury case against a stranger may seem straightforward, pursuing compensation from a loved one can be an uncomfortable experience.

However, it’s important to understand that seeking compensation doesn’t have to harm your relationship. A car accident lawyer can help explain the process, which may include filing a claim with your family member’s insurance. If the claim is valid, the insurance company may cover the damages instead of your loved one.

What If A Loved One Dies In A Car Accident During Thanksgiving?

Losing a loved one during what should be a festive holiday is devastating. While no amount of money can replace a life lost, the law allows certain surviving family members to seek compensation for wrongful death. Eligible parties include:

• The surviving spouse
• A surviving parent
• An adult offspring
• An estate representative

The emotional toll of a tragic loss can be overwhelming, and the financial challenges that follow can add even more stress. Money cannot compensate for a loved one, but it can provide stability and relief, allowing families to focus on healing rather than dealing with financial hardships. A wrongful death claim may allow certain family members to recover medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost income. Car accident attorneys can guide you through this difficult time and help you understand your legal options.

What Should I Do To Secure Compensation For My Car Accident?

These steps may help you seek compensation for your losses and damages from a Thanksgiving car accident:

• Keep all relevant documents, including medical records, bills, property damage estimates, records of lost wages, and correspondence with insurance representatives.
• Avoid posting about your accident on social media, including activity updates, holiday photos, and recent check-ins.
• Preserve all accident-related documents, including every invoice and receipt, as well as a journal that details your pain and recovery progress and milestones.
• Consider hiring car accident lawyers to represent you if you or a loved one gets injured in a car crash during Thanksgiving. They can:
  • Calculate damages and your case’s value.
  • File the required paperwork within the legal deadlines.
  • Advocate on your behalf during negotiations with insurance companies.
  • Represent you in court if necessary.

After a crash, it’s a smart idea to seek free accident lawyer advice to help you understand your legal options more clearly.

Is It Worth Getting An Attorney For A Car Accident On Thanksgiving?

Following a car accident, your priority should be your recovery. It can be overwhelming to manage your expenses and seek compensation through insurance. That is why many accident victims wonder, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” Consulting an attorney can be a helpful step.

Car accident lawyers can guide you through the legal system and communicate with insurers on your behalf. You can focus on your recovery while they handle the paperwork, negotiations, and, if necessary, court representation.

What Is The Average Settlement For A Car Accident?

Car accident settlements in California can vary greatly based on several key factors:

• Severity of Injuries — More serious injuries often result in higher settlements.
• Property Damage — The extent of damage to your vehicle or other property affects the claim value.
• Insurance Coverage — Available coverage limits for both parties can impact the payout.
• Case Specifics — Every case is different, and outcomes depend on the details.

A car accident attorney can assess your losses and help you seek appropriate compensation.

Do I Have To Go To Court To Receive A Settlement For My Car Accident Injuries?

Not necessarily. Most car accident injury claims get settled out of court through negotiations with insurance companies. While going to trial is an option if a fair settlement cannot be reached, the majority of cases get resolved without ever entering a courtroom. A personal injury attorney can help you pursue compensation based on your documented damages.

How Long Will It Take For My Car Accident Case To Settle?

There is no fixed timeline for settling a car accident case. The process depends on several factors:

• Case Complexity — More complex cases take longer to investigate and resolve.
• Severity of Injuries — Serious or long-term injuries may extend the settlement timeline.
• Insurance Company Cooperation — Delays often occur if insurers dispute liability or damages.
• Negotiation or Litigation — Some cases settle quickly, while others take years if they go to court.

Personal injury attorneys may help you with the process and support your efforts to seek fair compensation.

Is There A Time Limit For Filing A Claim After A Car Accident?

Personal injury lawsuits have statutes of limitations or deadlines. In California, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, including those resulting from car accidents during the Thanksgiving holiday, is two years from the date of the accident or the date of discovery of the injury.

Failing to file within the applicable deadline may result in losing your right to seek compensation. Furthermore, prompt action helps preserve critical evidence, which can weaken or disappear over time. It also helps ensure that witness statements remain fresh and detailed. Lawyers can provide guidance on California’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases.

How Much Does A Car Accident Lawyer Charge In California?

Many personal injury attorneys handle claims, including car accidents, on a contingency fee basis. That means accident victims don’t have to pay lawyer fees upfront or out of pocket. The lawyer only gets paid if the case is successful. However, certain case-related costs may still apply.

The fee is often a predetermined percentage of the settlement amount, which may vary depending on specific factors. You can discuss the costs with your lawyer during the initial consultation.

Injured In A Car Accident On Thanksgiving? Call Our Injury Lawyers

Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., has handled various personal injury cases. We guide our clients through every step of the legal process, providing support that reflects their individual needs and circumstances.

Our car accident lawyers understand the challenges that follow a car crash. We are aware of the heightened risk of collisions that can affect drivers and their families during the holidays. If you or a loved one sustains injuries in such an accident over the Thanksgiving holiday, call (888) 488-1931 to schedule a free initial consultation or complete our “Do I Have A Case?” form. We can help you navigate the process of pursuing physical and financial recovery.

Our attorneys serve clients throughout California, including Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco, San Bernardino, Riverside, Fresno, Bakersfield, Long Beach, Anaheim, Stockton, Irvine, and numerous other cities.