The National Safety Council (NSC) predicts an estimated 515 people may be involved in a fatal car accident this Thanksgiving period. Â
Thanksgiving Day is a time for families and friends to gather together, share a meal, and create fond memories. To reach their Thanksgiving destination, most Americans choose to travel by car, which places them at the heart of congested traffic and exposes them to drivers who may be rushing, distracted, or even intoxicated behind the wheel. Â
For those who are driving, we ask that you pay extra attention and follow these simple tips to help make your holiday period safer.
Thanksgiving Day Car Accident Stats
- The National Safety Council is forecasting an estimated 515 fatalities this Thanksgiving Holiday Period 2021.
- According to various studies, seat belts, when worn properly, are 45% effective in preventing a fatality in a car accident.
- In the 2019 Thanksgiving Holiday Period, 29% of car accident fatalities involved an alcohol-impaired driver.
- In 2021, 48.3 million Americans are expected to travel by car to their Thanksgiving destination.
Be aware of drunk drivers
On any day or night, you need to be alert for drunk drivers, but during Thanksgiving and the holiday season, you need to be especially careful as the rate of drunk driving accidents drastically increases.
The night before Thanksgiving has become known as “Drinksgiving” and “Blackout Wednesday” and is marked by an increase in party activity where people binge drink. Many people can overestimate their alcohol tolerance and ability to drive safely, making them believe they are capable of driving when in fact they are a hazard on the road. Â
Be alert and off your cell phone
We’ve spoken about the dangers of using a cell phone and distracted driving before. It’s no secret that distracted driving kills. Using a cell phone while driving takes your focus from the road and transfers it to your phone. This causes your reaction time to be severely delayed. In the event you need to avoid a collision, you need your entire focus to be on the road to retain proper control of your vehicle. Â
Be patient and don’t rush
Prepare for heavy traffic. Over 48.3 million Americans are expected to travel by car for Thanksgiving this year. This kind of traffic all at once on our roads places a huge strain on our transportation network and if you plan on being one of those 48.3 million people traveling by car, prepare to be patient, use a traffic service to avoid collisions and congested roads as best as possible, and of course, avoid road rage and other behaviors that can be dangerous on the road. Â
If you are driving a long distance, prepare to take a break when you need it. Driving drowsy can be just as dangerous as driving intoxicated. Be honest with yourself and take a break or switch drivers if possible.
From us to you
On behalf of the entire team at Long, Jean & Wechsler, P.A., we wish you a safe and Happy Thanksgiving Day. Â
