Why Are Roadways So Dangerous On Thanksgiving?

 Posted on November 21, 2024 in Uncategorized

Thanksgiving is a sentimental time for families to reunite, often traveling long distances to enjoy each other’s company and appreciate what they have. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most dangerous times of the year with the sheer amount of motorists rushing to make it home. If you plan to be out on Thanksgiving, you should be aware of the common causes of car accidents that can lead to serious injury. If you were hurt in a car crash, a personal injury attorney in Hagerstown, MD can help you get the compensation you need.

Thanksgiving Traffic: What to Look Out For

If you plan to drive on Thanksgiving, especially on the highways, you should exercise caution and drive defensively. Common causes of accidents on Thanksgiving include:

• Adverse weather conditions: With winter approaching, poor weather can inhibit your ability to control your vehicle or react quickly to obstacles. Cold temperatures or rain can make the road slick, giving your tires less friction to brake. With the days getting shorter, be sure to use your headlights to make your car visible to other drivers after dark.

• Speeding: The rush to make it to dinner in time can motivate bad decisions behind the wheel. Speeding is a leading cause of crashes in Hagerstown, as it significantly reduces your reaction time if you need to make a sudden stop.  

• Drunk driving: Accounting for the behavior of other drivers is difficult, so give your fellow motorists some space, especially if someone seems to be driving erratically or swerving. If you had anything to drink before or after a Thanksgiving dinner, the safer option is to ask to stay the night or to arrange for someone else to drive you home.

Rear-End Collisions

When everyone is in a hurry to get somewhere, rear-end collisions are unfortunately common. Depending on the size disparity between the vehicles involved, this type of collision can cause severe bodily harm. Injuries resulting from a rear-end collision may include:

• Back injuries: A sudden impact can damage the sensitive nerves in your spine, resulting in chronic pain from a herniated disc or a fracture.

• Head injuries: The force behind a crash could cause your head to collide with the steering wheel or dashboard. A blow to the head might require stitches or leave you concussed.

• Broken bones: Even with a seatbelt attached, the impact of a rear-end collision could result in fractured or broken bones, inhibiting your mobility and possibly preventing you from working.

In the most grave cases, a rear-end collision has the potential for a catastrophic injury that will follow you for the rest of your life, often as a result of damage to the spinal cord or brain.

Speak with a Washington County, MD Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Above all else, your family would much rather have you make it home in one piece than take a risk trying to beat the Thanksgiving rush. If you have been injured in a car accident, the Hagerstown, MD personal injury lawyer at Serafini Law will give your case his fullest attention. Attorney Andrew Serafini has over 12 years of experience supporting personal injury victims in Maryland, with a track record of securing settlements. Call his office at 240-744-1600 today to schedule a free consultation.