Were You Injured in a Traffic Accident Over Thanksgiving?
Millions of people hit the road every year to visit friends and families for Thanksgiving. Unfortunately, the NHTSA considers Thanksgiving as one of the most dangerous and fatal holidays. Estimates from the National Safety Council also predict that 515 people might be killed during this year’s Thanksgiving holiday period.
This Thanksgiving day, two residents of High Springs were killed Thanksgiving morning during a fatal accident on Interstate 75. An 83-year-old woman and 13-year-old girl were killed while another person was severely injured.
Also known as Blackout Wednesday or Drinksgiving, Thanksgiving eve has become associated with partying and binge drinking. Between 2015 and 2019, approximately 800 people were killed in drunk driving crashes over Thanksgiving weekend. During the same time period, 135 drivers who were involved in deadly Thanksgiving eve crashes were drunk.
Why So Many Traffic Accidents Happen on Thanksgiving Weekend
The following are just some of the factors that cause or contribute to a significant number of traffic accidents over Thanksgiving weekend:
- Impaired Driving – An overwhelming number of Thanksgiving celebrations always include drinking copious amounts of alcohol. It’s crucial to note that even if you believe that you’re not over the legal BAC limit, your reaction times might be slower, increasing your risk of getting involved in a crash. Drugs could likewise impact driving ability. THC or tetrahydrocannabinol, which is the chemical responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana, could affect how you drive. Like alcohol, it slows down your reaction time, makes it harder to stay in the proper lane, and impairs cognitive performance.
- Fatigued Driving – Driving long distances is inherently tiring, but many people choose to do so, sometimes without sufficient rest, so that they could stick to their travel time schedule.
- Poor Weather Conditions – In some parts of the country, it’s usually wintertime during Thanksgiving. Icy conditions and slippery roads could increase the risk of traffic crashes.
- Unfamiliar Roadways – Driving to unfamiliar or new places could result in distraction, and consequently, traffic accidents.
Furthermore, there are generally more vehicles on the road, and most people travel in groups, including young kids, which increases distractions. All of these things could pose a hazardous risk when traveling during the Thanksgiving holiday.
What to Do If You Get Injured in a Thanksgiving Traffic Accident
Even the most careful and responsible drivers and road users could get hurt in a traffic crash during Thanksgiving. After getting proper and prompt treatment for your injuries, you must protect your legal rights to compensation by consulting with a skilled Florida motor vehicle accident attorney. Insurance companies will definitely be involved, and you wouldn’t want to face them on your own and accidentally settle your claim for an amount that isn’t enough to cover all your damages.
Talk to an Experienced Florida Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney Today
Did you or a family member suffer serious injuries in a Thanksgiving traffic accident in Florida? The skilled Florida motor vehicle accident attorney of Tragos, Sartes, & Tragos can help you understand your recovery options and make sure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to under the law. Complete our online contact form or call (727) 441-9030 to schedule your free case consultation today.