An In-Depth Guide To Driving Safely On Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day weekend is known for road trips, barbecues, and the unofficial start of summer. Millions of people across the U.S. will travel by car from May 23 to May 27, 2025. In 2024, the American Automobile Association (AAA) reported that over 38 million people drove during Memorial Day weekend, one of the busiest travel weekends on record.

While holiday travel is exciting, it also brings risks. The National Safety Council (NSC) reported that 418 people died in crashes during Memorial Day weekend in 2024. In 2025, over 300 roadway deaths are expected during this period.

To help reduce accidents, police across the country will be out in full force. They will be checking for speeding, drunk driving, distracted driving, and seat belt use. This guide shares tips to help you stay safe and protect your loved ones this Memorial Day weekend.

Memorial Day Driving In California: What To Know

California roads are some of the busiest in the country during Memorial Day weekend. Each year, crashes increase during the holidays compared to regular weekends. If you’re driving in California, expect delays on highways like I-5, I-405, and US-101, especially near big cities like San Diego, Los Angeles, and the Bay Area.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) will begin its Maximum Enforcement Period at 6:01 PM on Friday, May 23, 2025, through 11:59 PM on Monday, May 27. Officers will be on alert for:

Plan and drive safely to avoid delays and reduce your risk of an accident.

Essential Memorial Day Driving Safety Tips

Memorial Day weekend is one of the busiest times for driving in the U.S. With more cars on the road, there’s a greater chance of traffic and accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 4,000 people were killed or injured in crashes during Memorial Day weekends from 2020 to 2023.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

That brings the total to 4,182 people killed or injured in Memorial Day weekend motor vehicle accidents from 2020 to 2023. These numbers show how important it is to drive carefully during the holiday weekend. Below are 10 simple safety tips based on guidance from NHTSA that can help you protect yourself and others while on the road.

Buckle Up And Choose Safer Routes

Wearing a seat belt is one of the easiest and most important ways to stay safe in a crash. In 2017, seat belts saved nearly 15,000 lives, according to NHTSA. Seat belts work best when everyone wears them, no matter how far you’re going.

This Memorial Day, expect more police on the roads as part of the Click It or Ticket campaign. Make sure everyone buckles up before the trip starts.

You can also plan a safer route by choosing toll roads. These roads often have less traffic and are well-maintained. Most use electronic toll systems, so you won’t have to stop at toll booths. It’s a smoother and often faster drive.

Even with good planning, other drivers may still cause crashes. Speak with a car accident attorney to learn how to protect your rights after the crash.

Use Car Seats Correctly And Supervise Children

Child passengers need extra care during holiday travel. Using the right car seat can greatly reduce the risk of serious injury. According to NHTSA, proper car seat use lowers the chance of fatal injury by 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers.

Follow these car seat safety guidelines:

• Under Age 2 — Use a rear-facing car seat until your child reaches the seat’s height or weight limit.
• Ages 2-5 — Use a forward-facing seat with a harness.
• Ages 5-8 — Use a booster seat until a seat belt fits properly (usually when a child is 4’9″).
• Under age 13 — Keep children in the back seat for added safety.

In California, children under 8 must ride in the back seat using a car seat or booster seat. If a child is 8 or older — or at least 4’9″ tall — they can use a regular seat belt if it fits correctly.

Never leave a child alone in a car. Even on a mild day, the temperature inside can rise quickly and become dangerous. Setting a good example by wearing your seat belt helps teach your children safe habits.

Drive Sober

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is dangerous and illegal. Even small amounts can affect your reaction time, focus, and judgment. On average, 34 people die every day in the U.S. due to crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers. If you plan to drink, always:

• Choose a designated sober driver.
• Use a ride-sharing service.
• Stay overnight instead of driving home.

Impairment doesn’t just come from alcohol. Some prescription and over-the-counter medications can make you drowsy or slow your thinking. Always check the label before getting behind the wheel.

If you suffered harm in a DUI accident, our drunk driving accident lawyers can help you understand your legal options.

Stay Focused And Avoid Distractions

Distracted driving is one of the top causes of accidents. Anything that takes your attention away from the road, like texting, eating, or adjusting the radio, increases the chances of a distracted driving accident. Even a split second of distraction can double your risk of a crash. In 2023, more than 3,000 people died across the U.S.

Many modern cars come with safe-driving technologies that help prevent accidents, such as:

• Lane departure alerts
• Forward collision warnings
• Blind spot detections

These features are helpful, but they don’t replace careful driving. Always keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel. If you need to make a call, send a message, or adjust something in the car, pull over safely first.

If you were injured because another driver wasn’t paying attention, a car accident attorney can help explain your options for moving forward.

Obey Speed Limits

Speeding is a major cause of crashes, especially during busy travel weekends like Memorial Day. Driving too fast gives you less time to react and increases the chances of serious injuries if a crash happens.

The American Trucking Association reports that drivers are nearly three times more likely to crash if they go faster than the flow of traffic.

Here are some of the best ways to avoid car accidents:

• Follow posted speed limits.
• Slow down in work zones and near crosswalks.
• Leave extra space between your vehicle and others.

Taking your time could make all the difference in avoiding a crash.

Never Drive Drowsy

Driving while tired can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Fatigue affects your focus, slows your reaction time, and makes it harder to make good decisions.

Common causes of drowsy driving include:

• Not getting enough sleep.
• Driving for long periods without breaks.
• Taking medications that cause drowsiness.

To stay alert and safe:

• Get a full night’s sleep before your trip.
• Take regular breaks — every two hours or 100 miles.
• Switch drivers if someone else in the car can help.
• Avoid medications that may make you sleepy before driving.

If you’re too tired to drive, don’t push through it. Pull over and rest or delay your trip.

Share The Road Responsibly

Holiday weekends bring more drivers, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians onto the roads. Everyone shares the responsibility of driving safely and giving others enough space.

Here are a few reminders:

• Watch for motorcycles and bikes, especially in your blind spots.
• Give large trucks plenty of room, especially when changing lanes.
• Never cut in front of a truck suddenly — they need more time to stop.
• Slow down in areas with more foot traffic, like shopping centers, parks, or crosswalks.

If you can’t see a truck driver’s side mirrors, they likely can’t see you either. Being cautious and respectful helps prevent crashes and protects everyone on the road.

Pay Attention To Flashing Lights

Every state, including California, has “Move Over” laws. If you see a vehicle with flashing lights, like a police car, ambulance, tow truck, or even a roadside worker’s truck, move over one lane if it’s safe to do so. If you can’t move over, slow down as you pass.

This law protects emergency responders, tow truck drivers, and anyone helping on the side of the road. Giving them space helps prevent serious accidents.

Talk To Teen Drivers

Teen drivers have less experience on the road, which can lead to mistakes. In 2023, more than 2,600 people lost their lives in crashes involving teen drivers ages 15 to 18. Before the holiday weekend, talk to your teen about safe driving. Remind them to:

• Stay focused. No texting or using apps while driving.
• Follow the speed limit.
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications.
• Wear seat belts — every passenger, every time.

Be a good role model when you drive. Teens learn from what they see. If possible, help them choose safer and less crowded routes, especially during peak travel times.

Check For Recalls

Before hitting the road, give your car a quick safety check. A few simple steps can prevent a breakdown or even a fatal car accident. Regularly inspecting your vehicle and addressing auto defects saves you money on repairs and keeps you and other road users safe. Here’s a quick checklist to follow:

• Tires — Inflate them properly. Look for cracks, bulges, or worn tread.
• Brakes And Fluids — Check brake fluid levels and make sure your brakes respond well. Brake failures can be hazardous, especially when trying to stop quickly in an emergency.
• Lights — Test headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. All lights should work, especially if you’re driving at night or in bad weather.
• Windshield And Wipers — Make sure your windshield is clean and free of cracks. Top off washer fluid and replace old wipers if needed.

Also, check for vehicle recalls. Fixing any issues before your trip can help you avoid roadside emergencies.

Driving Tips For Truckers This Memorial Day Weekend

Truck drivers play a key role in keeping roads safe, especially during busy holidays like Memorial Day. If you’re driving a truck, there are several safety measures to avoid truck accidents. Follow these tips to stay alert and reduce your chances of a crash:

Minimize Lane Changes

Stick to your lane when possible, especially in heavy traffic. Plan your route ahead of time and signal early when you need to change lanes. Always signal well in advance when changing lanes, and follow the “10-second rule.” Signal for 3 seconds, then make the change within 7 seconds.

Use Turn Signals And Flashers

Always use your turn signals when turning or merging. If you’re driving slower than the speed limit, turn on your flashers so others know.

Keep A Safe Distance

Leave enough space between your truck and the vehicle ahead. Avoid tailgating, and if someone tailgates you, slow down gradually to let them pass. Aggressive driving doesn’t make traffic flow faster and can lead to dangerous situations.

Watch Your Blind Spots

Trucks have large blind spots. Check your mirrors every few seconds, and always double-check before turning or merging.

Watch For Other Road Users

Holiday weekends bring more cars, bikes, and pedestrians. Stay alert, especially at rest stops, intersections, and busy areas.

Take Breaks To Avoid Fatigue

Driving for long hours can make you tired. Take regular breaks to stretch or rest. If you need to reverse, always check around your truck and use your flashers.

Prepare For Emergencies

Carry emergency gear, including:

• Reflective triangles
• A fire extinguisher
• A first aid kit
• Extra fluids like oil and coolant

If you haul hazardous materials, have a spill kit ready. And always lock your trailer if you leave it unattended.

Even experienced truck drivers can get caught in accidents caused by others. If you’re involved in a crash, speak with our truck accident lawyers to learn what steps to take next.

The Best And Worst Times To Hit The Road This Memorial Day

Holiday traffic builds fast, especially in the afternoons. Planning your trip around peak travel times can help you avoid delays and reduce stress on the road.

• When to avoid driving: The busiest times are typically between 12:00 PM and 7:00 PM on Thursday and Friday, as many drivers head out for the long weekend.
• When to drive: To avoid traffic, leave early in the morning or later in the evening, when fewer cars are on the road.

For your return trip, expect the heaviest traffic on Sunday and Monday afternoons. If you can, wait until after 7:00 PM on Monday or travel early on Tuesday morning to avoid congestion.

Frequently Asked Questions About Driving During Memorial Day Weekend

Planning to drive this Memorial Day weekend? Many drivers have questions about traffic, safety, and what to do after an accident. This section answers some of the most common concerns to help you stay informed and prepared.

If you have questions about your legal options after a crash, you can call (888) 488-1391 to speak with someone from our team.

Should I Drive At Night Or In The Morning During Memorial Day Weekend?

Driving in the early morning is usually safer and less stressful. Traffic tends to build up in the afternoon.

For example, based on past travel trends:

• Leave before 11:00 AM on Thursday, May 22, or Friday, May 23.
• Avoid driving between 12:00 PM and 7:00 PM on Friday through Monday.
• For your return trip, the best time is after 7:00 PM on Monday, May 26, or early Tuesday morning.

Also, avoid driving if you’re tired. Fatigue slows reaction time and can lead to serious crashes. If you’re feeling sleepy, pull over and rest or switch drivers.

If you were hurt in a crash caused by a drowsy driver, speak with a personal injury attorney to understand your legal rights.

How Much More Dangerous Is Driving During Memorial Day Weekend?

Memorial Day weekend tends to have more traffic and more crashes than regular weekends.

According to the National Safety Council (NSC):

• Traffic deaths during Memorial Day are about 8% higher than during other long weekends.
• Alcohol is a major factor — in 2022, 43% of Memorial Day weekend crash deaths involved an impaired driver.

The combination of more vehicles, holiday celebrations, and longer trips makes the weekend riskier. Use extra caution, and never drive under the influence.

If you were injured by a drunk or reckless driver, lawyers for car accident claims can help explain your next steps.

What Should I Do When An Accident Occurs?

If you’re recovering after a car accident, whether at home or in the hospital, there are still important steps you can take to protect your legal rights:

1. Request A Copy of The Police Report — This document can help support your insurance claim or legal case.
2. Gather Information — If possible, collect names, insurance details, and contact information for the other driver and any witnesses.
3. Keep Track of Medical Care — Save your bills, discharge papers, prescriptions, and doctor’s notes. These records show how the injury has affected your health and daily life.
4. Document Your Recovery — Write down how the injury has impacted your work, mobility, or sleep. Photos of your injuries and damaged vehicle can also be helpful.
5. Speak With A Lawyer — A car accident attorney can guide you through the claims process, deal with the insurance company, and help you understand what compensation you may be entitled to.

What Should I Do If Insurance Companies Call Me After A Crash During Memorial Day?

Here’s how to protect yourself when speaking with insurance companies:

• Report the crash to your own insurance company.
• Don’t give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer without legal guidance.
• Avoid accepting a quick settlement; it may not cover all your losses.
• Keep all documents related to medical care and expenses.
• Contact a lawyer before signing anything.

Insurance adjusters may try to reduce what they pay. Having legal guidance can help you make informed decisions.

Hurt In A Collision? Contact Arash Law’s Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers Now!

If you’re recovering from a car accident at home or in the hospital, you may be feeling overwhelmed, especially with medical bills, missed work, and insurance calls piling up. You don’t have to manage this alone.

If you’re wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” The answer is yes. Speaking with an attorney can help you understand your rights and what steps to take after a crash. At Arash Law, we help injured victims across California. Whether you live in a small town or a busy city, our legal team is ready to support you. We offer free, no-obligation case evaluations to help you understand your options.

Call us at (888) 488-1391 to speak with a member of our team. We’re available 24/7, including weekends and holidays, to support clients throughout California.