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Thanksgiving Season Traffic Fatalities


When roads are full of distracted drivers, there is always a chance of an accident. According to the National Safety Council, the Thanksgiving holiday weekend has the highest traffic fatalities.

Every year, the Thanksgiving travel season ends with a tragic toll: More than 1,000 people die in traffic accidents during the holiday weekend. The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that more than 44 million Americans will travel 50 miles from home between Thursday and Sunday, November 24-27.

The most recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that there were 17.7 million police-reported motor vehicle crashes in 2019, resulting in 37,461 deaths and 6.4 million injuries. The NSP’s annual report on highway fatalities shows that 41 percent of all traffic deaths occur in crashes involving at least one driver impaired by alcohol use.

Most Common Causes of Traffic Fatalities During the Thanksgiving Season

As with any time of year, there are dangers on the road. But Thanksgiving comes with its own unique set of driver challenges.

Here’s a look at some common causes of accidents during Thanksgiving:

  • Distracted driving: Most Thanksgiving travelers will be behind the wheel, and some will be distracted by their phones or other devices. Distracted driving is responsible for more than 3,000 deaths each year in the United States, according to the National Safety Council.
  • Drunk driving: Drunk driving rates typically increase during holiday weekends because so many people drink before getting behind the wheel. During Thanksgiving weekend in 2016, nearly one-third of all traffic fatalities were alcohol-related, according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) data.
  • Weather conditions: Traveling in bad weather is never fun, but it can be especially dangerous if you’re unprepared for it or don’t know how to handle your vehicle while it’s raining or snowing. Many crashes occur because drivers underestimate how slippery roads can get when wet.

The best way to prevent fatalities during this period is by taking precautionary measures, such as avoiding alcohol consumption and driving without distraction.

What To Do If a Negligent Driver Injures you or Someone you Love?

If a negligent driver has injured you, the first thing you should do is contact the police. You should also see a doctor immediately to determine what injuries you may have sustained and whether or not they need immediate attention. Once you have seen a doctor, it is important that you document everything that happened during the accident and contact an attorney.

We have recovered millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for our clients, and we will work tirelessly to pursue the compensation you need and deserve. Contact our Las Vegas personal injury firm to schedule your free initial consultation.