CHICAGO, IL – America’s roadways may be congested this year as the American Automobile Association (AAA) predicts more than 53 million people traveling for the Thanksgiving holiday, up 13% from last year. AAA predicts 48.3 million American’s to travel on the roadways, as commuters leave work early and mix with other holiday travelers.
Senior Vice President of AAA Paula Twidale explained how travel will look much different than last year by stating, “now that the boarders are open and new health and safety guidelines are in place, travel is once again high on the list for Americans who are ready to reunite with their loved ones for the holiday.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for people aged 1 to 54 in the United States.
Take time to plan your travel ahead of time to ensure your car and those traveling with you too will be safer. While accidents can happen for any reason, there are dangers specific to the holiday season.
- Drunk driving is responsible for many holiday accidents and fatalities each year. While we all love celebrating with loved ones, social binge drinking can lead to a person making a fatal decision to get behind the wheel while intoxicated.
- Dangerous weather conditions like snow, black ice, wind, and hail increase the risk during the winter season. As people travel on roadways, many drivers face these hazardous conditions.
- American’s may be traveling more than normal during he holiday season, feeling pressed for time, and drive fatigued and stressed. Due to the pressure and tension of the COVID-19 pandemic, it may increase tensions on the roadway.
How to Stay Safe on the Roadway
Even experienced and careful drivers face these dangerous conditions and are susceptible to the risks that roadways pose. Here are a few ways you can protect yourself and your family on the road this holiday season:
- Drive Sober
Do not drive impaired and put others lives at risk, including your own. Make alternative travel arrangements if you know you will be drinking, including designating a sober driver or taking an Uber home. - Plan for the Weather
Winter can be unpredictable, especially in Illinois, so be sure to check the weather before getting on the road. Black ice is one of the most dangerous parts of driving during the wintertime. Drive slowly and drive defensively. - Remain Alert
Not all drivers pay attention on the roadway, so make sure you are and drive with extra care and keep an eye on other drivers. - Don’t Text and Drive
Other than it being against the law, any type of handheld phone usage while driving is dangerous. Texting is one of the top reasons for car crashes, especially during the holiday season. Avoid all distractions while driving, especially your cell phone.
No matter what your plans are this holiday season, the roadway poses hazards like weather and distracted drivers. If you are injured in an car accident, contact the personal injury attorneys of the Dinizulu Law Group. Our attorneys are knowledgeable and experienced who will fight for the negligent party to be held accountable. Contact our office now at (312) 384-1920 to learn how we can further help you.
