Our Family Has Given A Voice To The Injured For Over 50 Combined Years
Thanksgiving is a time for families and friends to gather, celebrate, and reflect on what they are thankful for. However, this festive season also brings increased travel, which can lead to higher risks and possible car accidents on the road. With millions of people hitting the highways, it is important to prioritize safety while traveling.
What Are Some Tips for Safe Thanksgiving Travel?
Planning ahead is key to a safe Thanksgiving travel experience. Consider these tips:
- Anticipate heavy traffic before, during, and after Thanksgiving. Leaving early can help avoid congestion and reduce stress.
- Be sure that your vehicle is in top operating condition before leaving for a long trip. Check the oil, tires, brakes, and windshield wipers to avoid mechanical failures.
- Use GPS or mapping apps to identify the best routes. Consider alternative paths to avoid construction or known traffic bottlenecks.
- Fatigue can impair driving ability. Schedule breaks during long trips and share driving responsibilities with your passengers when possible.
- Make sure all passengers are buckled up before hitting the road.
- Avoid using your phone or engaging in other distractions that could take attention away from the road.
- Alcohol and drug consumption can impair judgment and reaction times. If you plan to imbibe, arrange for a designated driver or use rideshare services.
How Can I Handle an Accident During My Thanksgiving Travels?
After an accident, the first step is to check for injuries. Then, call 911 for help and snap a photo of the other vehicle’s license plate—hit and runs are common, unfortunately. If it is safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents and turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Next, gather evidence by documenting the scene. This includes taking photos of the accident site, any vehicle damage, visible injuries, and road conditions. It is also important to collect contact and insurance information from all parties involved. If there are any eyewitnesses present, try to get their information as well.
There might be no need for an ambulance, but visit your doctor as soon as possible for a complete medical evaluation; many injuries do not present symptoms until hours, days, or weeks after crashes.
Ask the responding officers for a copy of the accident report, and make sure to get it for your records. It is also wise to notify your insurance company as soon as possible, providing them with the information collected at the scene. If you have suffered serious injuries or property damage, it may be wise to seek legal advice to understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation.
What Should I Do if I Experience Car Trouble During My Thanksgiving Travels?
If you encounter mechanical issues during your travels, follow these guidelines to stay safe:
- As soon as you notice an issue, pull over to the shoulder of the road. Turn on your hazard lights to signal to other drivers.
- Evaluate the problem. If you can safely perform basic repairs, such as changing the tire, do so. Otherwise, avoid attempting any repairs that may put you in danger.
- If you cannot resolve the issue, contact roadside assistance or a towing service for help. Stay in your vehicle if it is safe to do so until help arrives.
- If you must exit your vehicle, be cautious of traffic. Wear reflective clothing, if available, to increase visibility.
- If you feel unsafe, call 911 and wait for help to arrive.
The East Orange Car Accident Lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein Advocate for Safe Holiday Travel
The East Orange car accident lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein provide legal guidance and support for clients after motor vehicle accidents. Located in East Orange, New Jersey, we serve clients in the surrounding areas. For a free consultation, call us at 973-675-8277 or contact us online.
