A Friendsgiving gathering may feel more low-key than family time, but make no mistake: traveling to any get-together over Thanksgiving weekend can be dangerous. The National Safety Council estimates roughly 500 people were killed in car accidents over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend each year from 2020 through 2023.
With so many drivers on the road, it's important to stay alert as you make your way to your Friendsgiving meal. Try these tips to stay safe during this year's road trip.
Practice Defensive Driving
Defensive driving means following traffic rules and paying attention to avoid potential problems. Defensive driving is always a good idea, but these skills are even more important when there are so many more drivers on the road. You can up your safety game by obeying the speed limit and slowing down when road conditions require it. For example, colder temperatures can cause black ice on the road, while rain, sleet, or snow will all create hazardous driving conditions.
It's also important to avoid distracted driving during your trip. Anything that takes your eyes — or mind — off the road can reduce your reaction time and cause an accident. Put your phone in the glove box and set up your navigation and playlists before you hit the road.
Plan Your Route
Few things are more stressful than getting lost on the road, so planning your route in advance is always smart. Spend time looking at your map app before you get in the car to check for any road closures or construction. Get familiar with potential alternate routes before you leave so you can be prepared to take a detour if necessary.
It's also a good idea to check the weather forecast before you go—not just for the destination but for the total area you're planning to drive through. If there's a chance of precipitation, you can adjust your plans to leave at a different time or select an alternate route.
Prep Your Vehicle
Before any long trip, give your car a proper check-up to make sure it's in good working order. In the week leading up to the holiday, you'll want to check the following:
Motor oil and fluid levels, including windshield wiper fluid
TIre air pressure
Brake responsiveness
If you don't already have one, consider packing an emergency kit in case of a breakdown. This is especially crucial heading into winter when a breakdown could leave you stranded in the cold. Essential items include:
First aid kit
Flashlight
Bottled water
Non-perishable snacks
Blankets
Drive in Shifts
Driving long distances is incredibly fatiguing, and drowsy driving can lead to deadly accidents. Stay safe by sharing driving responsibilities with others. Consider carpooling with others to lighten your load. Your car mates can be heading to the same general location or a stop along the way, even if they aren't sharing your holiday celebration.
Whether you drive with others or alone, make regular rest stops to use the facilities, stretch your body, and rest your mind. Grabbing a snack or cup of coffee can also help reset your mind and keep you fresh behind the wheel.
Practical Tips for a Safe Journey
Keep these tried-and-true road trip basics in mind for your Friendsgiving:
Leave early to avoid feeling rushed — and to resist the temptation to speed.
Stay hydrated to help keep alert.
Avoid heavy meals before driving — it's not the turkey but the size of the meal that can cause a "food coma."
Don't drink and drive, period. Alcohol is often part of Friendsgiving, but drunk driving has disastrous consequences.
Enjoy Your Friendsgiving
Friendsgiving is all about enjoying time with your loved ones, so make sure you arrive safely. When you plan ahead and commit to safe driving practices, you'll be able to enjoy your togetherness and create memories that last a lifetime.
Updated 11/12/2024