Thanksgiving Car Accidents: Common Causes And What To Do If Involved In A Crash
Thanksgiving is dedicated to food and spending time with family and friends. Add in football, hiking, or other favorite activities, and you have the makings for a fun weekend.
However, if you plan on traveling over the holiday, be aware that auto accidents pose serious risks and can result in devastating injuries. Our Issaquah-based auto accident attorneys explain common causes and what to do if involved in a crash over the holiday weekend.
Thanksgiving Weekend Safety Tips
Many Washington State residents plan to travel over the long Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Whether you are visiting Issaquah to spend time with friends and family or are planning on traveling around town, be aware that heavy holiday traffic increases auto accident risks.
The National Safety Council warns that Thanksgiving weekend is one of the most dangerous times of year to be on the road. Over 400 people are killed every year due to car accidents on the Thanksgiving weekend, while thousands of other victims suffer serious injuries. Common causes include:
- Driving under the influence, which is a significant problem the night before Thanksgiving (which is referred to by safety officials as ‘Blackout Wednesday’) and throughout the weekend;
- Distracted driving, such as changing GPS settings, texting, and talking on cell phones;
- Aggressive driving, such as tailgating, failing to yield, and improper passing; and
- Speeding, running red lights, and other traffic violations.
What To Do If You Are Involved In A Car Accident
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) urges drivers to use caution on local roads and to refrain from behavior that can put you and other motorists at risk. Get your vehicle serviced if traveling far, check traffic and weather conditions before heading out, and let others know your itinerary.
Realize you may be stuck sitting in traffic, so give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination. Be patient with other drivers, obey all traffic rules and regulations, and do not get behind the wheel if you have any amount of alcohol in your system.
Unfortunately, despite your precautions, you may still find yourself in a car crash on your Thanksgiving holiday. If you are in a crash, follow these tips to protect yourself:
- Contact law enforcement immediately;
- Depending on where the crash happened, determine whether it is safer to get out or remain in the vehicle until help arrives;
- Once the police get on the scene, give a brief statement but avoid speculating on the causes;
- Exchange driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance information with the other driver;
- Take photos and get contact information for witnesses; and
- Visit the hospital or an urgent care facility to get treatment for your injuries.
To Protect Your Rights, Contact One Of Our Experienced Issaquah Auto Accident Attorneys
Thanksgiving car accidents in Washington State are common and can cause serious personal injuries. To protect yourself and your rights in an injury claim, contact Injury Law Group NW and request a free consultation with one of our experienced Issaquah auto accident attorneys.
Sources:
injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/holidays/thanksgiving-day/data-details/
wsdot.wa.gov/travel
