Thanksgiving Travel Accidents: What to Do After a Car Crash | Stein Law
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Thanksgiving Weekend Car Accidents: Why They Happen and What to Do Next

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and celebration — but it’s also one of the most dangerous travel weekends of the year. Millions of drivers hit the road to visit loved ones, leading to congested highways, fatigued motorists, and an alarming increase in crashes.

If you or a loved one are involved in an accident this Thanksgiving, it’s important to know how to respond and protect your rights. Here’s what you need to know from the Miami car accident lawyers at Stein Law.

Why Thanksgiving Weekend Is So Dangerous

The Thanksgiving holiday consistently ranks among the deadliest travel weekends in the U.S. According to the National Safety Council, hundreds of fatal crashes occur each year between the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the following Sunday.

Several factors contribute to the spike in accidents:

  • Heavy traffic: With so many people on the move, highways and city roads are more congested than usual.

  • Drowsy driving: Long trips, late-night returns, and holiday fatigue increase the risk of falling asleep behind the wheel.

  • Drunk or impaired driving: Holiday parties and gatherings often involve alcohol, leading to more impaired drivers on the road.

  • Distractions: GPS use, texting, or even reaching for food during the drive can divert a driver’s attention for a critical second.

  • Weather and visibility: Rain, fog, and early sunsets can make driving conditions more hazardous.

Whether you’re traveling across Florida or just a few miles down the road, it’s essential to stay alert and prepared.

What to Do After a Car Accident on Thanksgiving

Even with caution, accidents happen — and the chaos of the holidays can make it even more stressful. Here’s what to do immediately following a crash:

1. Check for Injuries and Call 911

Your safety comes first. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries and move to a safe area if possible. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is hurt.

2. Stay at the Scene

Never leave the scene of an accident, even if the damage appears minor. Wait for law enforcement to arrive and provide a clear account of what happened.

3. Exchange Information

Swap contact and insurance information with all parties involved. Avoid discussing fault — simply exchange the necessary details and remain calm.

4. Document the Scene

Take photos and videos of the vehicles, road conditions, license plates, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information as well.

5. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, some injuries (like whiplash or internal trauma) can take hours or days to show symptoms. Visit a doctor promptly to document any injuries and ensure your health is protected.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. However, avoid giving recorded statements or signing documents before consulting an attorney.

7. Contact a Miami Car Accident Lawyer

Navigating insurance claims during the holidays can be overwhelming. An experienced attorney can handle communication with insurers, gather evidence, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

At Stein Law, we make the process easier — giving you direct access to your attorney and personalized legal support from start to finish.

Tips to Stay Safe on the Road This Thanksgiving

While you can’t control other drivers, these precautions can help reduce your risk of an accident:

  • Plan ahead: Leave early and allow extra time to reach your destination.

  • Avoid distractions: Put your phone away and focus solely on driving.

  • Rest before driving: Get adequate sleep before long trips.

  • Watch your speed: Heavy traffic and sudden slowdowns are common during the holiday rush.

  • Don’t drive under the influence: Arrange a sober ride or use a rideshare service if you plan to drink.

  • Check your vehicle: Inspect tires, brakes, and fluids before hitting the road.

A few extra precautions can make all the difference in getting you and your family home safely.

Contact Stein Law

If you’ve been injured in a Thanksgiving weekend car accident, don’t wait to get help. The Miami car accident attorneys at Stein Law can guide you through your claim, protect your rights, and ensure you’re treated fairly by insurance companies.

Contact Stein Law today to schedule a free case review.

FAQ

Why do so many accidents happen on Thanksgiving weekend?
 Increased travel, impaired driving, and fatigue contribute to a major rise in collisions during the holiday weekend.

What should I do if the at-fault driver was drunk or distracted?
 Call the police immediately and gather as much evidence as possible. Your attorney can use this information to hold the negligent driver accountable.

Can I file a claim if I’m partially at fault for the crash?
 Yes. Under Florida’s comparative negligence rule, you may still recover damages, though your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How long do I have to file a claim after a car accident in Florida?
 You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim.

Brandon Stein

Chief Executive Officer

Brandon Stein is a Florida based trial attorney born in Queens, New York, and was raised in East Brunswick, New Jersey. Being the son of an accountant that owns a large firm in New Jersey, owning and operating a business is something that was engrained within Brandon Stein from a very young age...[READ BIO]

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