Arash Law’s Thanksgiving Travel Guide – Your Roadmap For Safety During The Holidays

Thanksgiving is a celebration centered around gratitude, family, love, and gratefulness. The occasion marks the start of the holiday season, ushering in the Black Friday bustle and intensified holiday shopping. However, amidst the festivity, it’s important to recognize that the roads can become equally chaotic. Regardless of what’s on your calendar, do not overlook the importance of safe driving, especially at the busiest travel times.

With Thanksgiving approaching, our travel tips will help ensure you have a safe, enjoyable, and stress-free holiday. Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., is committed to providing you with the information you need to make this Thanksgiving travel season a success. To help you start the holidays right, we’ve put together a guide to help you navigate this busy time of year.

Planning For A Safe Thanksgiving Road Trip

Whether traveling on a short trip to a nearby celebration or undertaking a more extended road trip, prioritizing your safety on the road is essential. From meticulous planning and vehicle check-ups to restful breaks and awareness of potential distractions, these essential Thanksgiving driving safety tips aim to equip you with the knowledge needed for a smooth and incident-free drive.

Research Traffic Patterns

Before your Thanksgiving journey, plan your route to avoid heavy traffic on main highways. Be aware of peak congestion times in cities, like morning rush hours and late afternoon commutes. Consider using smaller service roads instead of crowded highways. Use GPS apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates and explore alternative routes to bypass busy areas and construction zones. Check online forums for suggested routes.

If driving at night, stay informed about the dangers of driving at night and prepare accordingly. We also compiled a list of tips to combat the dangers of night driving if you want to make sure you’re adequately prepared before you set off.

Consider Weather Conditions

Stay updated on current and expected conditions to ensure a safe journey. Check the weather forecast before your Thanksgiving trip, especially in regions known to have sudden weather changes. Snow, ice, and rain can affect traffic and cause delays. Winter weather around Thanksgiving increases the risk of accidents in many U.S. regions.

Pack For Comfort And Safety

For a comfortable and fun Thanksgiving road trip, pack the following:

• Snacks And Drinks — Bring healthy options like granola bars, nuts, fruit, jerky, and water.
• Entertainment — Ready some books from your reading list, favorite podcasts, and Holiday playlists. For kids, pack games, coloring books, and an iPad or tablet with movies or shows.
• Comfort Items — Don’t forget to take travel pillows, blankets, and comfy clothes with you, especially for overnight travel.

Additionally, if you’re traveling on a long road trip, pack essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, and any chargers or power for your devices. Consider bringing a small first aid kit for any unexpected minor injuries.

Map Out Your Stops Along the Route

Plan your breaks in less congested areas during a long drive to avoid crowded rest areas. Well-timed stops can refresh everyone and add adventure to the trip. Use apps like Roadtrippers and Google Maps to find scenic or fun stops, such as parks and quirky roadside attractions, along your route.

Other Things To Do Before Your Trip

1. Prepare Important Documents — Have your owner’s manual, license, and insurance cards on hand. Carry a list of important contact numbers, including roadside assistance services like towing, battery jumpstarts, tire changes, and even fuel delivery.
2. Pack Emergency Items — Despite precautions, accidents or breakdowns can still occur. Be prepared with a first-aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, early warning devices, a spare set of car keys, and an emergency kit with blankets, water, snacks, and a portable phone charger.
3. Do A Pre-Trip Inspection — Ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition before hitting the road. Prioritize the upkeep of your vehicle to steer clear of breakdowns or accidents resulting from mechanical glitches. Your vehicle will be essential for your Thanksgiving road trip, so ensure it’s in excellent condition. Here’s a checklist to ensure a safe and smooth journey:
   • Inspect tire pressure, tread, and condition of the spare tire.
   • Ensure headlights, taillights, and turn signals are working.
   • Replace your windshield wipers if worn out.
   • Verify that your brakes are functioning properly. If you need new brake pads, have them replaced.
   • Top-up oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Of course, fill up your fuel tank.
   • Ensure your car battery is fully charged and connections are secure.
   • Wash windows and exterior for better visibility.
4. Consider A Maintenance Check — Schedule a comprehensive inspection with a qualified mechanic to check brakes, engine, lights, and other vital components. Arrange a service appointment for an oil change, tire rotation, and checks on your brakes, lights, and fluid levels.

Keep A Flexible Schedule

Avoid packing your itinerary with too many activities, especially during national holidays like Thanksgiving when many places are closed or crowded. Focus on relaxation and set low expectations. Prioritize safety over punctuality, as your loved ones will understand if you’re late due to traffic or weather.

How To Drive Safely On Thanksgiving

If you’re gearing up for lengthy trips, exercise heightened caution, especially with the surge in Thanksgiving traffic. Even though factors like weather conditions and the behavior of other drivers are beyond your control, doing your responsibility to avoid traffic accidents can significantly contribute to a safe Thanksgiving travel experience.

Before heading out for Thanksgiving dinner and the holiday, take note of these additional tips to ease your worries on the road:

Don’t Drink And Drive

Holidays bring much-anticipated celebrations, but they can also cause some to drink more than usual. Under no circumstances should you engage in drinking and driving. Alcohol significantly impairs judgment and reaction times, increasing the risk of drunk driving accidents. If you’ve consumed alcohol, ensure you get enough rest before operating a vehicle. In California, being apprehended with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% can lead to a DUI charge, as this is the legal limit.

Partaking in the dangerous practice of “Blackout Wednesday” is strongly discouraged. This trend, gaining popularity online, encourages excessive alcohol consumption on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, a period when numerous individuals take to the roads. Alcohol affects the brain and body long after the last drink, despite common misconceptions. To plan for a safe return:

• Book a rideshare or taxi.
• Have a sober friend or family member pick you up.
• Use public transport.

Watch Out For Drunk Drivers

Also, instances of intoxicated driving don’t stop during any particular time of the year. In 2022, 100 drivers were involved in fatal crashes on Thanksgiving Eve, with 35% of them being inebriated. If you’re driving, you must know how to recognize the signs of drunk drivers:

• Slow or fast response to traffic signals.
• Inability to control a vehicle, like swerving in and out of lanes.
• Excessive stopping/breaking.
• Making illegal turns.
• Driving without headlights at night.
• Driving on the wrong side of the road.

Fasten Your Seatbelt

Always wear your seatbelt because it is a highly effective measure to reduce injury risks in accidents. Around half of vehicle occupants killed in traffic accidents were not wearing seatbelts.

During the Thanksgiving holiday weekend in 2022 (from 6 p.m. on November 23 to 5:59 a.m. on November 28), 326 passenger vehicle occupants were killed in traffic crashes nationwide. 43% of them (141 people) were not wearing seat belts.

Research shows that correctly wearing seat belts is 45% effective in preventing fatalities among front-seat passengers.

Ensure all passengers, including those in the back seat, whether your kids or pets, are securely buckled before starting the engine. If you have children or are planning to travel with them, familiarize yourself with car seat safety for kids.

Minimize Distractions

In the age of constant connectivity, prioritize focus on the road. Store your phone away – no calls or texts while the engine is running. If necessary, find a safe spot to stop for any communication. Keep music volume at a reasonable level, and ensure children and pets have activities to minimize accident-causing distractions.

Furthermore, try not to eat while driving. You might be wondering, “Is eating while driving illegal?” It’s permitted. Eating while driving might seem safe, but it becomes risky if you drop food, burn yourself with hot items, or spill a drink, causing distractions. You can easily lose control of your vehicle with a moment’s distraction.

It’s also crucial to remember to avoid distractions in harsh weather conditions. Distracted driving can delay your reaction time, increasing the risk of losing control on wet, icy, or snow-covered roads. Full alertness is essential for safe navigation during severe weather.

Maintain Safe Following Distance

In heavy holiday traffic, keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front. In normal weather conditions, adhere to the 3-second rule. Pick a stationary object on the roadside, such as a sign or tree, and count to three after the preceding car passes it. If you reach the spot before completing the count, adjust your distance. Adjust the distance when driving on icy roads, as discussed further below.

Watch Out For Wildlife

Be vigilant for wildlife, especially in rural or wooded areas. Animals, particularly grazing deer, are more active during dawn and dusk. If you encounter wildlife on the road, slow down to avoid sudden movements that could lead them into oncoming traffic.

Collisions with wildlife, such as coyotes or deer, are common in some parts of the country and can cause serious injuries, ranging from concussions to traumatic brain injuries. For instance, in Minnesota, the Dakota County Sheriff’s Office reported a single-vehicle rollover on Northfield Boulevard at around one o’clock in the morning. The driver of a semi-truck that was hauling Thanksgiving turkeys swerved to avoid an animal, causing the truck to roll into a ditch and damage a power pole.

Do Not Cut In Front Of Trucks

The holiday season brings busier schedules and longer hours for truck drivers, who work hard to meet the increased demand for holiday goods and deliveries. To prevent catastrophic truck accidents, stay out of their blind spots and always pass on the left where visibility is better.

Remember that trucks are much heavier and need more time to stop compared to passenger vehicles. Avoid cutting in front of them abruptly. A fully loaded tractor-trailer requires a distance equal to a football field plus both end zones to come to a complete stop. It’s a long way.

Prioritize Resting

Ensure you are well-rested before long journeys to combat driver fatigue. It can impair driving as much as alcohol. A good night’s sleep helps keep your mind sharp. Alarmingly, around 60% of US drivers have fallen asleep behind the wheel in the past year.

Get plenty of rest before driving, and avoid drinking the night before to prevent hangover-related impairment. Share driving duties with another qualified driver, if possible, to avoid exhaustion, and if you feel drowsy, pull over safely to rest or stretch.

Maintain Composure And Patience

Heavy traffic can be stressful, but staying calm and focusing on safety is crucial. Expect delays and stay positive, especially with family. Holiday traffic can triple travel times, so plan accordingly. If you’re running late, slow down to avoid car accidents. Be extra cautious in bad weather due to slippery roads and low visibility.

To mitigate holiday traffic frustrations, use traffic apps, stay updated with local DOT notifications, and leverage 511 services for real-time updates.

Best And Worst Times To Travel During Thanksgiving

Timing is key to avoiding Thanksgiving traffic. Here’s a simple guide on the best and worst times to travel during the holiday weekend.

Best Times To Hit The Road

To avoid the heaviest traffic, plan your travels wisely during the Thanksgiving holiday. What is the best day to travel by car on Thanksgiving week? Typically, traveling during less congested times can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. What is the best time to travel for Thanksgiving to avoid traffic? Here are some of the best times to hit the road.

• The Tuesday Before Thanksgiving — Kick off your trip a day early if you can. Traveling early on Tuesday helps you dodge the big Wednesday rush. Late Tuesday night can also be a good time with fewer cars on the road.
• Thanksgiving Morning — Surprisingly, early Thanksgiving morning, especially before 8 AM, is a great time to travel. Most people have already reached their destinations, leaving the roads clearer.
• Friday Morning — The day after Thanksgiving, most folks are busy shopping or relaxing with family, making it a quieter time to travel.
• Saturday Morning — By Saturday, traffic has usually eased up. Leave early in the morning to stay ahead of the crowds.
• Sunday Evening — Though Sunday is one of the busiest travel days, traffic often lightens up after 8 PM as people wind down and prepare for the week ahead.

Worst Times To Drive

AAA estimates that 79.9 million people will travel 50 miles or more from home during the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday, with 71.7 million of them driving. This is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and certain times are notorious for heavy traffic and long delays. To help you navigate the holiday rush, here are some of the worst times to be on the road.

• Wednesday Afternoon And Evening — One of the busiest travel days. Expect major congestion starting at 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Plan to travel before 10 a.m. to avoid the worst traffic.
• Friday Morning — Black Friday shopping causes heavy traffic between 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. Best to travel after 1 p.m.
• Sunday Afternoon And Evening — Another challenging time as people return home. Traffic peaks between 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. Consider traveling earlier in the day.

Think About Alternatives to Peak-Time Travel

Avoid the hassle of peak-time traffic with these simple strategies:

• Celebrate Close To Home — If you can, celebrate close to home. It’s a great way to dodge traffic and keep things low-stress.
• Opt for Public Transport — In some places, public transport can be a smart choice. Check the schedules and plan accordingly.
• Extend Your Stay — Adding an extra day or two to your stay, like traveling on Monday instead of Sunday, can help you avoid traffic jams.

Preparing For Weather Challenges On The Road On Thanksgiving

While the recent weather across the U.S. has been relatively calm, weather forecast models are suggesting a shift to a more active weather scenario coinciding with the commencement of Thanksgiving travel. Given the season, there’s a potential for severe weather, including winter storms, which can impact travel plans. This factor should be considered when making your travel arrangements.

Depending on your location, fall, winter, and spring often bring freezing temperatures. While these chilly conditions might keep you indoors, if your car is exposed to the cold outside, it becomes vulnerable to various cold weather-related issues. Ensuring your vehicle is winter-ready during Thanksgiving is important.

Driving In Snow And Ice Safely For Thanksgiving

The winter season often brings challenges like snow and icy roads, demanding extra precautions for safe travels during Thanksgiving. Here are some safe driving tips for winter to ensure a worry-free ride during the holiday season:

• Prepare Your Vehicle For Winter Driving — To ensure safe winter driving, check your tires for proper tread and pressure, test your battery, inspect brakes, and top off essential fluids like antifreeze and washer fluid. Ensure all lights work, and keep an emergency kit in your car. Equip your vehicle with chains or snow tires for better traction on icy roads, and conduct a thorough tune-up, checking components like brakes, defroster, lights, and wiper blades.
• Drive At A Safe Speed — When driving in snow and freezing rain, slow down and accelerate or decelerate gradually to avoid losing control. High speeds reduce traction and increase accident risk. Speeding-related accidents often result in more severe consequences, including higher chances of catastrophic injuries and fatalities. Slowing down helps gauge road conditions and test steering and brakes. Brake gently when stopping or turning to avoid sudden stops.
• Keep A Safe Distance — Extend your following distance to five to six seconds. This extra space will give you the necessary room to stop safely if needed.
• Avoid Using Cruise Control — Refrain from using cruise control when driving on icy or snowy roads. Cruise control reduces your control over the vehicle, increasing the risk of an accident. Always deactivate cruise control when driving in winter conditions.
• Maintain Momentum — Avoid stopping if you can; it’s easier to keep moving while rolling than from a full stop. Also, don’t stop on a hill; get enough speed on flat ground before taking on the incline.
• Drive On Hills Carefully — Don’t use extra gas on hills; let your car’s momentum carry you up and then slow down as you crest the hill.

Caring For Your Car At Below-Zero Temperatures

Freezing temperatures can put a strain on your vehicle, from minor issues like tire pressure drops to more serious problems like frozen fuel lines. Here’s how to keep your car in top shape:

• Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated — Cold temperatures cause air to contract, causing tire pressure to drop. Check and inflate tires weekly during winter to avoid low-pressure warnings.
• Ensure Your Battery Is Ready — Cold weather slows battery reactions, reducing power. Test your battery before winter, use a battery or engine block warmer, and carry jumper cables.
• Prevent Fuel Line Freezing — Moisture in the gas tank can freeze, blocking fuel flow. Keep the tank at least half full and use cold-weather-rated fluids to prevent freezing.
• Protect Your Wiper Blades — Before using your wipers, make sure to defrost the windows to prevent wear. Use a scraper to remove any ice and snow before turning on the wipers.
• Guard Against Salt Damage — Salt spread on roads in certain areas can cause more rust on vehicles. To protect your car, regularly rinse it off, especially the undercarriage, wheel wells, and brake and fuel lines.

Projected Thanksgiving Day Statistics For 2024

Thanksgiving Day is consistently observed on the fourth Thursday in November, resulting in a 4.25-day weekend spanning Wednesday evening through Sunday. In 2024, Thanksgiving Day is on November 28th. The holiday weekend kicks off at 6 PM on Wednesday, November 27th, and runs until 11:59 PM on Sunday, December 1st.

AAA projects nearly 80 million travelers will travel 50 miles or more from home this Thanksgiving, marking an increase of 1.7 million from last year and 2 million more than in 2019. This year’s forecast includes travel from the Tuesday before Thanksgiving through the following Monday. Of these travelers, a record 71.7 million are expected to travel by car, surpassing pre-pandemic numbers.

Gas prices are lower this year, with a national average possibly dropping below $3 per gallon before Thanksgiving. Drivers east of the Rockies may find gas between $2.25 and $2.50 a gallon in many states.

Holidays traditionally see a surge in travel across the United States, with many choosing to drive — a mode of transport with the highest fatality rate per passenger mile. Celebrations often involve alcohol consumption, a key factor in motor vehicle crashes.

The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that around 502 people may lose their lives in traffic incidents on U.S. roads during this Thanksgiving holiday period, with a 90% confidence interval ranging from 445 to 562 deaths.

Holiday traffic often leads to more motor vehicle accidents and injuries. Based on the ratio of 114 non-fatal injuries for every fatality, it’s estimated that 57,200 non-fatal injuries requiring medical consultation may occur during the holiday period, with a 90% confidence interval between 50,700 and 64,000.

Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., aims to raise awareness of these risks, promote safe driving practices, and ensure a holiday season filled with both joy and safety.

Most Traffic Accident-Prone Areas In California

Certain areas in California consistently show higher rates of traffic accidents due to factors like population density and road infrastructure. During Thanksgiving, exercise extra caution and have a contingency plan if traveling to these locations:

• Los Angeles — Heavy traffic, especially on I-5 N to Bakersfield. Peak congestion: Wednesday, 27th at 7:45 PM.
• San Diego — Busy roads, particularly on I-15 S from Palm Springs. Peak congestion: Saturday, 30th at 4:45 PM.
• San Francisco — Congestion on I-80 E to Sacramento. Peak congestion: Tuesday 26th at 7:30 PM.
• Orange County — High accident frequency in cities like Anaheim, Santa Ana, and Irvine.
• San Diego County — Significant traffic on Interstates 5 and 8 and busy suburbs.
• Bay Area — Heavy traffic in San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose.
• Riverside County — More accidents in Riverside and Moreno Valley.
• Sacramento County — Congestion on major highways like I-80 and I-5.
• Central Valley — Speed-related accidents in Fresno, Bakersfield, and Modesto.

Accident statistics change periodically, and efforts continue to enhance road safety during Thanksgiving.

Traveling With Pets During Thanksgiving

Bringing pets on Thanksgiving trips can be safe and stress-free with the right strategies. Here are some tips:

• Traveling By Car
  • Secure Your Pet — Use a seat belt and harness combo for dogs or a crash-tested crate. For cats, a soft-sided crate with a space for a litter box works well.
  • Handle Car Sickness — If your dog gets car sick, consult your vet for medications. Be prepared to ensure a smooth journey.
  • Reduce Travel Anxiety — Address travel anxiety early by consulting your vet or a certified trainer for techniques to ease your pet’s stress during car rides.
• Traveling By Plane

  Check airline regulations for pet travel. Flying can be stressful for pets, especially if they need to be in the cargo area.

  • Cat Owners — Confirm that your airline allows cats in the cabin and ensure the carrier fits under the seat. Use a harness and leash for security during security checks.
  • Dog Owners — If your dog is too large for in-cabin travel, assess if they can safely travel in the cargo hold. Avoid placing flat-faced breeds in the cargo hold due to health risks.

Proper planning and preparation ensure your pet can join you safely during the holiday season.

Factors That Make Driving On Thanksgiving Dangerous

On Thanksgiving, several common accidents tend to occur due to increased travel and specific holiday-related factors, including:

Drunk Driving

Holiday celebrations with alcohol lead to more accidents due to impaired drivers. From 2018-2022, 833 people died in crashes involving drunk drivers during Thanksgiving (6 p.m. Wednesday to 5:59 a.m. Monday). In 2022, there were 184 such fatalities. Nationally, alcohol-impaired driving caused 31% of traffic deaths in 2021, and 36% of Thanksgiving Day fatalities involved drunk drivers.

Red-Light Running

Verra Mobility’s data shows that for the past five years (2019-2023), the Wednesday before Thanksgiving has the highest number of red-light violations over the holiday weekend. In 2023, over 57,000 red-light violations were recorded from Wednesday through Sunday. Violations have increased yearly since 2020, with most occurring between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Wednesday. Running red lights can be deadly, especially during Thanksgiving when more drivers are on the road.

Speeding

Exceeding speed limits, especially on highways, can cause severe injuries and accidents. Speeding reduces reaction time, increases stopping distance, and lowers the effectiveness of safety structures. Thanksgiving Day has seen the most speeding violations in the past two years (2022 and 2023), with over 150,000 violations recorded during the holiday weekend in 2023. Most violations occur between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.

Distracted Driving

Smartphone and navigation system usage during Thanksgiving increases accidents due to inattentiveness. Holiday distractions contribute to more dangerous driving, spiking around Thanksgiving weekend. Heavy traffic before Thanksgiving dinner leads to rear-end collisions, often causing whiplash and concussions.

Mechanical Failures

Breakdowns during a Thanksgiving trip can be a major hassle and safety risk. Here are some mechanical issues that could derail your holiday travel:

• Tire Blowouts Or Skidding — Picture this: you’re on your way to Grandma’s house, and suddenly, a tire blows out due to worn tread. Regularly checking and maintaining your tires can help you avoid this scenario.
• Steering Issues — You’re navigating through holiday traffic, trying to merge onto a packed freeway, when your power steering suddenly gives out.
• Burnt-Out Lights Or Faulty Wiring — Picture traveling on a dark, rainy Thanksgiving evening, but your headlights fail, making it difficult to see and be seen. Regular checks of your lights and wiring are crucial for safe travel.

These are just a few examples where mechanical failure can ruin your trip. Regular maintenance and checks can help you avoid these issues and ensure your holiday travels go smoothly.

Adverse Weather

Adverse weather is common during Thanksgiving, making roads slippery and reducing visibility, leading to accidents. Here are the risks:

• Rain — Rain can create slick surfaces on the road. Wet roads reduce tire traction, increasing the likelihood of rain accidents due to skidding or hydroplaning, particularly at higher speeds. Poor visibility also makes it harder to notice other road users, increasing the risks of pedestrian accidents, motorcycle crashes, or bicycle collisions.
• Snow And Ice — Snow can accumulate quickly. It can make roads slippery, leading to loss of traction and increased stopping distances. Snow can also obscure lane markings, traffic lights, or stop signs, which can lead to red-light accidents or intersection crashes.
• Strong Winds — Strong winds can make it difficult to maintain control on the road, especially for high-profile vehicles. Gusts can push vehicles off course, leading to sudden lane departures or even SUV rollovers. Wind can also blow debris onto the road, further increasing the risk of accidents.

Ice and packed snow can cause your vehicle to skid, especially when driving too fast or going downhill.

In one notable incident in 2019, a California couple was stuck in a snowstorm jam on Interstate 5 for 18 hours while traveling for Thanksgiving. They left their Marin County home on Tuesday morning but didn’t expect to be stranded south of Dunsmuir due to heavy snowfall, which led to dangerous road conditions and gridlock.

Improper And Inexperienced Driving

During Thanksgiving travel, unfamiliarity with tricky roads can lead to unsafe maneuvers, such as sudden lane changes and improper seat belt use, resulting in injuries. The influx of college students and young adults with limited driving experience, particularly on motorcycles, also increases the risk of road accidents.

What Should You Do After A Driving Accident During Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is one of the holidays where accidents resulting in fatalities happen quite often, and it’s usually among the top five holidays with the highest number of ER visits. Remember that there’s a significant risk of car accidents for people who are traveling during the holidays.

A lot of people in the States will be driving to see their family members. If you get into a car accident while you’re traveling this Thanksgiving, make sure to do these things:

1. If it’s safe, move your car to the side of the road and out of harm’s way.
2. Call 911 for emergency services.
3. Contact your local police department.
4. Gather details about the cars in the accident, like the license plate number, year, make, color, and model.
5. Make sure to get the contact info, driver’s license, insurance, and registration from everyone involved in the accident who was driving. Take pictures of these documents using your phone.
6. Write down all the details about the accident, like where it happened, when it happened, and any other important information. You can store this as a note on your phone.
7. Make sure to take pictures of the accident scene, including any damage to your car and the other cars involved.
8. Get in touch with your insurance company and report the incident. Explain what happened and share any relevant documents you have collected so far.

If you had a car crash during Thanksgiving weekend, our lawyers can help you. As one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, Arash Law has the experience and resources to fight for the compensation you deserve. Our dedicated team will guide you through every step of the legal process, from filing claims to negotiating with insurance companies, ensuring that your rights are protected.

You might be wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer to handle my case?” While it’s possible to manage a car accident claim on your own, having an experienced lawyer by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome. A car accident attorney can gather evidence, determine liability, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Don’t let a car accident ruin your vacation. Spend quality time with the people you care about. Contact us now at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safe Driving Tips During Thanksgiving

What Is The Busiest Travel Day By Air For Thanksgiving?

For Thanksgiving 2024, the TSA is preparing for the busiest Thanksgiving travel period on record, expecting to screen 18.3 million people from Nov. 26 to Dec. 2. The busiest days are projected to be Tuesday, Wednesday before Thanksgiving, and Sunday after the holiday. TSA Administrator David Pekoske encourages travelers to plan, follow travel tips, and consider TSA PreCheck for a smoother experience.

Why Is Thanksgiving Dangerous For Drivers?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) cautions individuals to exercise heightened vigilance while engaging in automobile travel during the Thanksgiving holiday, as it is associated with a higher incidence of fatal car accidents compared to other holidays annually. Every year, there is a noticeable surge in the total death rate in the United States during the Thanksgiving period due to a significant rise in car accidents occurring both on and around this holiday.

The risks associated with this situation can be attributed to two primary factors: a significant increase in the number of drivers present on the road and an elevated level of alcohol intake beyond the limits. Despite the evolving safe driving technology in cars, it’s really up to people to decide whether or not to do the right thing to make sure they, their passengers, and other road users are safe.

Tips For Preventing Car Accidents During Thanksgiving

Ensuring the safety of oneself and loved ones is of utmost importance, whether one is hosting guests at their residence or assuming the role of driver during the Thanksgiving holiday.

When organizing a social gathering at your residence, it is advisable to take into account the following factors:

1. Designated Drivers — Ensure a designated driver is available for those drinking alcohol.
2. Accommodations — Offer a place to stay for guests without a designated driver.
3. Nearby Lodging — Provide information on local hotels and transportation options like Uber or Lyft.
4. Retrieve Keys — Collect keys from guests to ensure they are sober before leaving.
5. Non-Alcoholic Beverages — Offer non-alcoholic drink options, involving kids in their preparation.
6. Stop Alcohol Early — Cease serving alcohol hours before guests plan to leave, giving them time to sober up.

Arash Law Wishes You And Your Family Safe Travels This Thanksgiving

As we come together to give gratitude and spend time with our families this Thanksgiving season, keep in mind the importance of safety during this holiday season.

However, amidst all the merriment, accidents can still happen, even on the road. We sincerely hope you never find yourself in such a situation, but if you do, know that you’re not alone. The dedicated team of car accident lawyers at Arash Law is here to lend a helping hand. The $500 Million in settlements and awards we have recovered for our clients shows we can help win your case. Contact us at (888) 488-1391.

Always prioritize our well-being and our loved ones. By doing so, we can fully embrace the joy and festivities this time of year brings. Happy Thanksgiving!