Road Fatalities During The Thanksgiving Season. Why Do Accidents Increase?
Thanksgiving is among the most celebrated holidays. But this holiday season is also considered to be among the deadliest holidays in the country, especially when it comes to traffic accidents and fatalities. Between the Wednesday prior to Thanksgiving Day and Sunday evening when the long weekend wraps up, thousands suffer mild to catastrophic injuries, and hundreds are killed in traffic crashes.
Why Do So Many Traffic Accidents Happen During Thanksgiving?
No one expects to get into a crash, especially when they are out and about celebrating Thanksgiving. But accidents can happen anywhere, at any time, and for any reason. Among the most common reasons why traffic accidents increase during Thanksgiving include the following:
- More Drivers On The Roadways – Driving remains to be go-to form of transportation for many people during Thanksgiving. People hop in their vehicles to head to the homes of their friends or relatives for the long weekend. Some people even travel to multiple places to visit multiple people. Unfortunately, more drivers on the roadways cause an increase in the risk of traffic crashes and fatalities.
- Drugged or Drunk Driving – Many people celebrate Thanksgiving by partying, doing drugs, and drinking copious amounts of alcohol. But drugged and drunk driving is among the top causes of traffic crashes during Thanksgiving weekend. Whether it’s beer, wine, hard liquor, cocktails, illegal drugs, or prescription drugs, people usually imbibe multiple drinks and experiment with various drugs while celebrating the holiday. This typically means that the roadways are flooded with drunk and drugged drivers.
- Drowsy or Fatigued Driving – The combination of driving long distances, eating a lot of food, drinking alcohol, and partying means people come home late when they may be too tired to drive. Drivers who drive while fatigued or drowsy run the risk of failing to focus on driving, getting easily distracted, or falling asleep while driving.
- Unfamiliarity With The Road – When people travel during Thanksgiving weekend, they often pass roads they’re unfamiliar with, leading to confusion, distraction, and traffic crashes.
- Mechanical Issues – Vehicle troubles, like tire blowouts, brake failure, or engine failure, can easily cause traffic accidents. Drivers must have their vehicles inspected before leaving and ensure that their fluids are topped up, among others.
Seek Legal Guidance From a Top Sarasota Personal Injury Attorney Now
When you’ve been in a serious crash, you have no choice but to deal with insurance claims, medical treatments, loss of work, and stress about your physical and financial recovery. At Matthews Injury Law, we understand that dealing with an accident is the last thing you need during Thanksgiving.
Instead of dealing with it by yourself, our Sarasota personal injury attorneys can negotiate a fair settlement that covers all your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. We are also prepared to take your case to court if negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurer hit a wall or if the other party denies your claim. Please reach out to us at 941-877-5800 or fill out our online form to set up a free case review with our Sarasota personal injury lawyer now.