Traveling For Thanksgiving? Take Steps To Reduce Maryland Car Accident Risks
In Maryland, Thanksgiving is one of the busiest times of the year to be on the road. As people travel both near and far to spend time with family and friends, traffic is heavy on major routes, such as I-95 and I-70, as well as on local streets and near shopping centers.
Between the traffic, shorter daylight hours, and reckless driving, Thanksgiving car accidents in Maryland are common. Our experienced Maryland car accident attorneys explain the risks and steps drivers can take to protect themselves now and throughout the holidays.
Why Thanksgiving Car Accidents in Maryland Are So Common
Thanksgiving is a time for friends, family, football, and lavish feasts. The American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that close to 80 million people traveled to be with loved ones during the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday season.
Whether you are out shopping, meeting up with friends, or planning a road trip, be aware that the increased traffic increases the risk of car accidents in Maryland. Reckless driving behavior that makes crashes more common over Thanksgiving includes:
- Distracted driving, which increases over the holidays.
- Speeding to reach destinations.
- Aggressive behavior towards other drivers, such as tailgating.
- Drowsy driving due to traveling and working long shifts;
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving following parties and family dinners.
The National Safety Council (NSC) advises that car accidents over Thanksgiving leave over 60,000 people injured each year and claim the lives of more than 500 people. In addition to heavier traffic and reckless driving, potentially poor weather conditions and decreased daylight hours increase the risks.
Safety Tips To Prevent Maryland Car Accidents This Thanksgiving
The Maryland Department of Transportation warns that Thanksgiving car accidents pose serious risks and can result in devastating injuries. Regardless of when or how far you travel, they encourage all motorists to follow these safety tips:
- Whether heading out to shop or meet family and friends, expect traffic and allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
- Stay calm behind the wheel and avoid cutting other drivers off or engaging in other aggressive behavior.
- If possible, avoid peak travel hours and choose alternate routes.
- Get enough rest before heading out on trips and take frequent breaks during long-distance travel.
- Stay focused on the road and silence phone notifications.
Make sure your vehicle is in good repair before taking any trips and watch out for impaired drivers, particularly at night. Be aware of how even a few drinks or different medications can impact your driving and increase Maryland car accident risks.
Injured in a Crash? Contact Our Experienced Maryland Car Accident Attorneys
Thanksgiving is a favorite time of year and marks the start of the holiday season. At Berman Sobin Gross LLP, we hope you have happy, healthy gatherings with family and friends. When injuries happen, we provide the trusted, experienced legal representation you need.
Our Maryland car accident attorneys help crash victims and their loved ones get compensation for their medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses. For caring, comprehensive legal service, schedule a consultation today.
Sources:
newsroom.aaa.com/2024/11/nearly-80-million-americans-expected-to-travel-over-thanksgiving/
injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/holidays/thanksgiving-day/
roads.maryland.gov/mdotsha/pages/pressreleasedetails.aspx?PageId=818&newsId=3278
