Thanksgiving Travel Safety: Five Tips To Prevent Car Accidents In Oregon

The holidays bring plenty of opportunities for travel and visits with family and friends. Many people kick off the season with Thanksgiving trips. Whether driving across town or across state, be aware of traffic conditions and how these increase car accident risks. To prevent potentially life-threatening personal injuries, our Oregon car accident attorneys encourage you to follow some simple safety tips. 

Reduce Your Risk of Oregon Car Accidents Over the Holidays

Car accidents in Oregon pose a serious threat to motorists. According to statistics from the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), close to 500 people are killed each year due to crashes and collisions, while thousands of others are left suffering serious personal injuries. These accidents become more common in winter, particularly on holiday weekends. 

The increase in traffic before, during, and immediately after Thanksgiving poses major risks on the road. To protect yourself and your passengers, follow these tips: 

1. Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained. 

Regardless of the distance you travel, vehicle maintenance is a top priority. In addition to making car accidents more likely to happen, automotive breakdowns can leave you stranded and vulnerable. 

2. Be prepared for traffic. 

Whether going to the local grocery store or visiting family and friends across the state, be prepared for heavy traffic. The more vehicles on the road, the greater your car accident risks. Take your time and avoid speeding, distracted driving, or other reckless behaviors. 

3. Plan your itinerary in advance. 

Particularly when traveling longer distances, consult ODOT’s Trip Check before you go. It provides a rundown of weather conditions, road closures, and traffic updates for the entire state. In addition to having an itinerary, make others aware of your plans. Let them know what time you are leaving and when you intend to reach your destination.  

4. Use caution in parking lots. 

Parking lots will be crowded as shoppers rush to prepare for the big feast and take advantage of post-Thanksgiving sales. Unfortunately, car accidents are particularly common in these locations and even a seemingly minor crash could cause potentially debilitating personal injuries. Go slow and use caution when turning into or out of parking lots and while backing in or out of spaces. Keep a watchful eye out for pedestrians as well. 

5. Be a defensive driver. 

Stay alert and aware when driving over the holiday weekend. Avoid driving if you have any amount of alcohol or certain types of medication in your system. Give other motorists plenty of space, avoid engaging with aggressive drivers, and make sure you and your passengers wear seat belts at all times. 

Injured In Crash? Contact Our Oregon Car Accident Attorneys

At the Johnston Law Firm, we wish you and your family a safe and happy Thanksgiving weekend. If a crash or collision does happen, reach out right away for help. Give us a call at (503) 546-3167 or contact our Oregon car accident attorneys online to request a free consultation today.