While fewer people may have traveled during Thanksgiving in 2020 than in most years, the holiday weekend is still a popular time for people to drive to family gatherings, and an unfortunate side effect is an increased risk of car accidents. The National Safety Council (NSC) reports an average of around 400 crash fatalities on Thanksgiving weekend over the last 10 years, with similar numbers predicted for this year’s holiday. Understanding some of the contributing factors to Thanksgiving weekend accidents may help you in your attempts to pursue compensation if you are injured.
Why Are Thanksgiving Accidents So Common?
The Thanksgiving weekend involves a number of factors that, in combination, make car accidents more likely. Some of these factors include:
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Alcohol consumption: NSC data shows that in most years, alcohol is a factor in a larger percentage of fatal accidents on Thanksgiving weekend than throughout the rest of the year. Alcohol is commonly consumed both at Thanksgiving Day gatherings and throughout the weekend, and impaired drivers pose a serious danger to themselves and others on the road.
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Increased traffic: The simple fact that more people travel during Thanksgiving weekend is another contributing factor to the greater number of accidents. Major U.S. highways are often some of the most dangerous locations, as many people travel long distances to see family.
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Weather conditions: Wisconsin’s winter weather is sometimes a factor in Thanksgiving weekend driving. Snow and ice can detract from visibility and traction, and many drivers and vehicles are unprepared to adjust to these difficult driving conditions.
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Driver fatigue: Driving long distances increases the risk of driver fatigue, especially when travel happens late at night. Tired drivers may be less alert or able to react to their surroundings, and they may even fall asleep at the wheel.
Pursuing Compensation After a Thanksgiving Accident
If you have been injured in a crash on Thanksgiving weekend, make sure that you get the medical attention you need, and contact an attorney as soon as possible. Your lawyer can help you gather evidence of drunk driving, drowsy driving, failing to account for road conditions, and other examples of negligent behavior on the part of another driver. Timely evidence in the form of photographs, video footage, police reports, 911 recordings witness testimony, and more can all help you build your case for full compensation for your medical bills and other damages.
Contact an Appleton Personal Injury Attorney
At the Herrling Clark Law Firm Ltd., we understand how hard it can be to deal with a car accident during a time that should be focused on celebration. We will help you handle the legal elements of your personal injury claim to remove as much of your burden as possible. Contact a compassionate Green Bay, WI car accident lawyer today at 920-739-7366 for a free consultation.
Sources:
https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/articles/2019-11-27/the-most-dangerous-states-for-thanksgiving-driving