Insights and tips for driving during Thanksgiving
It’s that time of the year! Millions of Americans will be traveling to reunite with their families and share memories over a delicious, carved turkey. Like everyone else, our team is extremely excited to participate in this year’s Thanksgiving festivities. To help keep you and your loved ones safe during the drive to grandma’s, we’ve provided some helpful insights and tips for traveling the roads during the holiday season.
Leaves Aren’t the Only Thing That Drop During Fall
This time of year often brings tremendously stormy weather. Heavy rains and flooding can make roads very unsafe. From simply being slippery to wind-blown debris in the streets, there are many factors that could contribute to injury while driving or riding in a motor vehicle. It’s of the utmost importance that you stay alert and continually monitor the road ahead of you. Debris falling on the street can often be unpredictable.
Blackout Wednesday
Thanksgiving Eve (Blackout Wednesday) is the biggest day for drinking in the U.S and you may very well be sharing the road with drivers under the influence of alcohol. According to the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Association), alcohol-impaired-driving crashes during the Thanksgiving holiday have taken the lives of over 800 people from 2012 to 2016. Over time, statistics like this have named the Thanksgiving holiday “the deadliest holiday on the roads.”
Tips to Follow for Safe and More Alert Driving
-Adjust your seat and mirror
-Bring your vehicle to a trusted mechanic for a complete tune-up and inspection.
-Plot your route before operating your vehicle. Share your itinerary with someone you know.
-Make sure you and all passengers are secured in their seatbelt.
-Ensure that your gas tank is full. If it’s been a while since your oil has been changed, set up an oil change appointment with your trusted mechanic.
-Follow the speed limit. If you are caught traveling in stormy weather, driving slower is better than risking you and your loved one’s safety.
-Make sure to have plenty of space between your vehicle and other vehicles on the road.
-If you notice a reckless driver, contact local law enforcement. The authorities are there to help protect you and other drivers.
The holidays are a great time for us all to take a break from our busy schedules, spend time with our loved ones and remember the many blessings in our lives. Our firm’s hope is that these insights will help provide you with the guidance you need to enjoy a safer drive to your destination. deGravelles & Palmintier wishes you and your loved ones a happy and safe holiday season!