As Thanksgiving draws near, many Yakima Valley residents are making plans to spend the holiday with friends and relatives near and far. Whether you are driving across town or across country, Yakima Valley attorney Mariano Morales urges you to use caution and plan ahead for your trip.
According to the National Safety Commission, Thanksgiving weekend is the most-traveled holiday period of the year, with almost 90 percent of Thanksgiving travel by car. Thanksgiving weekend is also the deadliest weekend for car accidents. The National Safety Council estimates that 451 people will die in traffic accidents over the holiday period, which runs from 6 p.m. Wednesday to 11:59 p.m. Sunday.
Do not make the mistake of assuming that you can avoid accidents by driving only across town for the holiday. Statistically speaking, you are more likely to get into an accident when you are within 10 miles of your home than when you are traveling a greater distance.
Here are some tips to help keep you safe on the road during Thanksgiving weekend:
- Avoid driving on Wednesday night, when many people start their holiday travel after a day of work, and the roads are congested.
- Avoid driving on Sunday evening when the roads also are congested and other drivers may be sleepy or may have been drinking.
- Always wear your seat belt.
- Do not use your cellphone to talk or text while driving.
- Pack activities for children to do in the car. Talking to other passengers, particularly young children, is another cause of distracted driving.
- Check the weather and road conditions before you head out and prior to returning.
- Watch your speed. Trying to get there faster by speeding could lead to not getting there at all.
- Get plenty of rest before you leave.
- Swap driving duty with a companion every two hours if possible.
- Stop to rest every two hours or every 100 miles.
- Make sure children are properly restrained.
- Restrain any animals traveling with you.
- Do not get impatient. Recognize that driving over the holiday can be frustrating.
Explore Your Options with a Yakima Valley Auto Accident Lawyer
If you have been injured or lost a family member in Yakima Valley area car accident, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries or your loss. The Washington State car accident attorneys at Mariano Morales Law can help you get through the legal process and make sure that the party responsible for your injuries or loss is held accountable.
Contact the team today by calling (509) 853-2222 or by using our online contact form for your free initial consultation.
Site by