How Can I Drive Safely This Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving driving safety tips are things you should do to help you stay safe on the road during heightened periods of travel. As we approach Thanksgiving, it is important to be a defensive driver and stay alert behind the wheel. This is especially true during the busy holiday season, when there are many more cars on the road and drivers may be feeling stressed or distracted.

By practicing safe driving habits like leaving plenty of space between your car and others, obeying speed limits, and always maintaining focus, you can reduce your risk of getting into an accident during this hectic time. Keep your guard up and stay alert on the roads this Thanksgiving—your safety and the safety of others depends on it.

Drive with extra caution on Thanksgiving and the two days before and two days after, as there will be more traffic and more people on the road than usual. This means keeping your speed down, allowing ample time for your trip, and staying alert for any sudden changes in traffic conditions.

Get plenty of rest before you head out on your Thanksgiving road trip. Being well-rested will help you stay focused and alert behind the wheel, reducing the risk of accidents or other driving mishaps.

Before getting behind the wheel, check that all your tires are properly inflated and in good condition. Worn or underinflated tires can reduce traction and increase the risk of skidding or losing control on slick roads.

Slow down in bad weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snow, and pay close attention to your vehicle’s headlights and brake lights to ensure that other drivers can always see you clearly.

Use extra caution when passing large vehicles like trucks or buses, especially if they are making a turn or changing lanes unexpectedly. Give them plenty of room to maneuver and avoid tailgating so that everyone can stay safe on the road this Thanksgiving.

Make sure all passengers are properly buckled up before you begin your journey. Keep children in appropriate car seats or booster seats as needed until they are old enough to safely use seat belts by themselves. If you are traveling with pets, keep them secure in crates or carriers designated for pet travel.

Always keep an eye out for pedestrians when driving this Thanksgiving, especially around busy shopping areas where people may be trying to cross streets quickly between stores or restaurants. Follow posted speed limits and yield to anyone who has the right-of-way to minimize the risk of an accident occurring with a pedestrian on your watch this holiday season.

Remember to always drive defensively, anticipating other drivers’ actions instead of simply reacting to them after they have already happened. This way, you can avoid potential hazards before they become real problems on the road.

Stay calm and focused while driving this holiday season. Acting on anger behind the wheel is not worth risking an accident or other dangerous situation on the road just because someone else made a mistake behind the wheel. Take a deep breath and focus on doing what is best for everyone’s safety instead of letting negative emotions take over while driving during Thanksgiving travel season.

If you find yourself feeling drowsy while driving this Thanksgiving holiday, pull over somewhere safe immediately—do not try to push through it. The safest option is to stop driving altogether until you feel fully awake again so that you can stay focused and alert throughout your entire journey this year.

Watch out for deer and other animal crossing signs along rural roads during November. These animals tend to be particularly active during the fall season, which often coincides with Thanksgiving travel time each year. Be extra cautious in areas where deer and other wildlife are known to roam so that you do not accidentally hit one while trying to get to your destination safely this holiday season.

Never drink alcohol or use drugs while driving this Thanksgiving—not only is it illegal, but it also greatly increases your risk of being involved in a car accident due to impairment from substances as well as reduced cognitive function behind the wheel.

When traveling long distances by car during Thanksgiving holiday, maintain focus behind the wheel by avoiding food and drink distractions. Eating or spilling something will quickly take your focus off the road. This could result in many unneeded complications which could distract you further.

Stay mindful of fuel levels when traveling long distances by car, since running out of gas along the route could lead to unexpected delays causing stress and anxiety, further increasing your risks.

Make sure your car is prepared for the trip, especially if you are taking a long road trip. Fall weather can quickly turn into winter weather, which can leave you stranded on the road. Make sure you check your tires, your fluid levels, and carry extra fluids with you. If you are not comfortable doing these things yourself, take your car to the mechanic well before Thanksgiving so you have time to correct any issues. Carry extra blankets, batteries, and external phone chargers just in case you end up in a worst-case scenario.

Edwardsville Car Wreck Lawyers at The Cates Law Firm Help You Stay Safe During Thanksgiving Travel

Though you can take precautions, you may still find yourself in an accident. If you have been injured by the negligence or aggression of another driver, you may be able to seek damages. Reach out to one of our skilled Edwardsville car wreck lawyers at the Cates Law Firm. Call us today at 618-277-3644 or contact us online to schedule your free, confidential consultation. From our offices in Swansea, Illinois, we proudly serve St. Louis, Belleville, Carbondale, East St. Louis. Granite City, Edwardsville, Chester, Waterloo, Madison County, St. Clair County, Monroe County, and Randolph County.