Now that November is here, Thanksgiving is right around the corner. While the COVID-19 pandemic is likely to impact some of your plans, many Portland residents are still looking forward to the holiday. The long weekend will provide a welcome opportunity to travel or catch up with family and friends. However, it is important to take some general precautions, both in terms of the virus and in reducing your car accident risks.
How COVID-19 Is Impacting Thanksgiving Plans
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to disrupt our normal activities. According to an October 28, 2020 KGW News report, Multnomah County Health officials warn that after a slight lull over the late summer months, case counts have steadily increased and are expected to shoot up in the weeks before and after Thanksgiving. As a result, people are urged to take certain precautions:
- Keep gatherings smaller this year;
- Consider hosting events outdoors when possible;
- Cancel plans to travel to areas that are designated as coronavirus ‘hot spots’ due to increased cases;
- Practice good hygiene by sanitizing surfaces and washing hands frequently;
- Maintain social distancing and wear a mask to help reduce airborne spread.
Despite pandemic-related precautions, there are still plenty of opportunities to socialize over the holiday. However, in addition to reducing your COVID-19 risks, take care when traveling to various destinations to reduce the chance of car accidents as well.
Reducing Your Risks of Thanksgiving Car Accidents
Whether you are headed across town or across the country for Thanksgiving, be aware that it is one of the most dangerous times of the year in terms of car accidents. It starts the Wednesday before the holiday, when out-of-town visitors arrive and residents rush to complete their shopping. Increased traffic on the road is a frequent factor in Thanksgiving-related crashes and collisions, as is speeding, distracted driving, and aggressive behaviors such as tailgating or failure to yield .
Regardless of the size or type of Thanksgiving events you have planned, be mindful of the role alcohol plays as well. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) warns that more than 200 people die in drunk driving car accidents each year over Thanksgiving weekend, making it one of the deadliest holidays to be on the road. To protect yourself and your loved ones, follow these tips:
- If you are hosting an event, be mindful not to over serve guests;
- If you plan on having even one or two drinks at holidays gatherings, make other arrangements to get home;
- Use extra caution when traveling at night, which is when most drunk driving accidents happen;
- If you encounter a driver you suspect is under the influence, pull over to a safe location and notify law enforcement.
Let Us Help You Today
At the Johnston Law Firm P.C., we wish you and your loved ones a safe and healthy Thanksgiving. In the event a car accident occurs, we are here to help you get the compensation you need to recover. Call (503) 546-3167 or contact our Portland car accident attorneys online and request a consultation today.