Picture this: you’re on the road for some long-awaited Thanksgiving travel, ready to enjoy one of your vacation ideas with family. The holiday season should be filled with joy, but unfortunately, the busiest travel days like these come with higher risks.
Between 2016 and 2021, traffic fatalities during Thanksgiving accounted for over 13% of all November accidents. These figures show how crucial it is to know what to do if the unexpected happens.
In this guide, we’ll offer practical steps to keep you safe, manage essential documentation, and know when to consult a professional, along with tips for a safe Thanksgiving travel. Let’s ensure you’re prepared to navigate it smoothly, even in an unplanned situation, and still have extra time for what matters.
Essential Steps After a California Car Accident
Accidents can be overwhelming during peak travel times, but knowing the proper steps can make a difficult situation more manageable. These essential tips will help you stay safe and organized after a car accident, whether you’re headed for a family gathering or a beach getaway.
1. Focus on Safety First
Your safety and well-being should be your top priority after an accident, especially during the busy holiday period. First, check for any injuries to yourself and others in the car and call for emergency care immediately. Remember to seek medical treatment since hidden injuries can appear later.
If possible, move your vehicle to a safe spot nearby to avoid blocking traffic and reduce further risks at the accident scene. Ensure all passengers are accounted for and safe before taking other steps.
2. Gather Crucial Documentation
After ensuring everyone’s safety, gather crucial documentation to help with any claims or reports. Clear records can make a significant difference, especially if your accident occurred during one of the worst times for travel, like peak vacation days.
Here are some key documents to collect:
- Photos of the accident scene and vehicle damage
- Driver and passenger information
- Contact information of witnesses
- Police report and any available video footage
- Insurance details of all drivers involved
3. Know Your Legal Rights in California
Knowing your rights under California law can make a big impact after an accident. It’s important to review your insurance policy ahead of time, not just after an accident, so you understand your coverage.
In California, insurance companies must acknowledge claims, offer fair settlements, and cover taxes and other fees in total loss cases. California also follows a “comparative fault” rule, allowing you to recover damages even if you share some responsibility, though your percentage of fault will reduce your compensation.
4. Seek Help from a Car Accident Attorney
During the busy holiday travel season, it’s important to know when to seek help from a car accident attorney. Consulting an attorney can protect your rights if you experience serious injuries, face disputed liability, or deal with insurance issues.
Below are some situations where legal assistance is crucial:
- Serious injuries that may require long-term medical care
- Disputed liability, where it’s unclear who is at fault
- Insurance issues, such as claim delays or coverage denial
A car accident attorney works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if you win your case. This takes the worry out of upfront costs. Keep in mind that California has a statute of limitations, so be sure to act promptly before your time to file a claim runs out.
Tips for a Safe Thanksgiving Journey
Now that you’ve taken steps to stay safe after an accident, it’s important to prepare for a smooth Thanksgiving travel experience.
Before hitting the road, do a thorough vehicle maintenance check, especially if you’re planning long travel days. Checking tire pressure, fluid levels, and brakes can prevent unexpected breakdowns and delays.
Plan your route, and try to avoid distractions like texting while driving. With the holiday season bringing increased traffic, be extra mindful of potential weather hazards, such as rain or fog, that could make driving more challenging.
If you’re a budget traveler or planning outdoor activities, designate a driver or use ride-sharing services if you plan to enjoy drinks with family and friends. Remember, alcohol-impaired driving is more common during Thanksgiving.
In 2021, alcohol-impaired driving was responsible for 13,384 deaths, making up 31% of all traffic fatalities in the U.S. that year. Taking breaks every few hours will also help keep you alert and refreshed.
Stay Safe This Holiday
Thanksgiving travel can be enjoyable, but preparing for unexpected situations like a California car accident is essential. Knowing what steps to take if you’re involved in an accident during the holiday travel period can make a huge difference.
Whether you’re on long road trips or quick day trips, keep safety in mind and have a plan. If you need help, reach out to a car accident attorney to guide you—contact us today for support.
