Thanksgiving is one of the most traveled holidays of the year, and in California, that means packed freeways, distracted drivers, unpredictable weather, and a big spike in accidents. Whether you're driving across Los Angeles to visit family or making the long trip from LA to Riverside, the holiday week puts everyone on the road at the same time.
And while Thanksgiving should be about food, family, and gratitude, one moment of careless driving can turn into a serious accident.
Here’s what California drivers and families should know to stay safe and protect their rights.
Why Thanksgiving Week Is So Dangerous on the Road
Every year, California sees an increase in:
- Long-distance travel
- Congested freeways
- Speeding
- Fatigued driving
- DUIs and holiday drinking
- Distracted driving (GPS, calls, kids in the car)
- Weather-related crashes (rain, fog, early sunsets)
More cars + more distractions + more alcohol = a higher chance of collisions.
On top of that, Thanksgiving often involves late driving after family gatherings, driving in unfamiliar areas, and long hours behind the wheel.
Most Common Thanksgiving Accident Scenarios
1. Rear-End Crashes in Traffic
Stop-and-go traffic on the 5, 10, 405, and 91 makes rear-end collisions extremely common.
2. DUI Accidents
Thanksgiving Eve is known as “Blackout Wednesday,” one of the highest DUI nights of the year.
3. Fatigued Driving
People travel long distances after working a full day or after Thanksgiving dinner.
4. Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Drivers rushing to beat holiday traffic or get home before dark often take risks.
5. Weather-Related Crashes
Rain, fog, and early sunsets make visibility worse.
6. Parking Lot Accidents
Malls and grocery stores are packed, meaning more fender-benders, sideswipes, and pedestrian incidents.
Tips to Stay Safe on the Road This Thanksgiving
1. Plan Your Route Early
Traffic builds fast. Leaving earlier in the day helps you avoid congestion and rushed driving.
2. Check the Weather
Rain and fog are common in late November. Slow down, use headlights, and increase following distance.
3. Avoid Peak Travel Times
The worst times to drive in California during Thanksgiving week are:
- Wednesday afternoon and evening
- Sunday afternoon
If possible, travel early in the morning or late evening.
4. Don’t Drive Tired
Fatigue slows reaction time the same way alcohol does. If you’re exhausted after dinner or hosting, it’s better to stay the night.
5. Watch for Distracted Drivers
With kids in the car, GPS rerouting, and holiday stress, distractions are everywhere. Stay alert and leave extra space.
6. Never Drive After Drinking
Even one drink can impair judgment, especially at night or in heavy traffic. Use a rideshare or stay where you are.
7. Be Cautious in Parking Lots
People walk behind cars, rush through aisles, and carry shopping bags that block visibility.
What To Do If You’re Involved in an Accident During Thanksgiving Week
The holidays make everything more chaotic, so here’s the quick version:
- Check for injuries
- Call 911
- Take photos and videos of the accident
- Get insurance information from all parties
- Look for witnesses
- Avoid discussing fault
- Contact a personal injury attorney before dealing with insurance
Because hospitals are busier and insurance adjusters are slower during holidays, getting legal help early is extremely important.
How Estrada Law Group Helps After a Thanksgiving Accident
Accidents during the holidays can throw your entire season off track. At Estrada Law Group, we step in immediately to:
- Handle communication with insurance companies
- Review police reports and video footage
- Work with medical providers
- Document your injuries and treatment
- Determine who’s responsible
- Fight for the compensation you deserve
We know how stressful holiday accidents are and we make sure you’re not navigating this alone.
The Bottom Line
Thanksgiving should be spent around the table, not dealing with the aftermath of an accident.
With a little planning and awareness, you can keep yourself and your family safer on the road.
And if something does happen, knowing your rights can make all the difference.
📞 Call Esther The Lawyer today at (323) 609-5000 or email intake@estradalawgroup.com.
We fight for victims. We fight for families. We fight for justice.
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