Southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois roads are some of the busiest in the Midwest. They see even more action over Thanksgiving weekend. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) notes that Thanksgiving travelers have to plan ahead not just for holiday traffic, but for deer activity as well. Whether you are headed south to the Chicago area or north into other parts of Wisconsin, remember these tips for safe Thanksgiving travel.
Distracted driving is one of the most common accident causes in the United States. No matter how long your Thanksgiving drive is, you can avoid distractions with a little bit of planning. Set up your travel playlists or podcast queue before you leave so you do not need to adjust the radio after you begin driving. Set up your navigation app and travel alerts so you are not tempted to use your phone while on the road.
Navigation is one of the biggest challenges during a busy drive. You may need to reroute to avoid traffic or take unexpected turnoffs for food and restroom breaks. Choosing a passenger to help with navigation ensures that you keep your eyes on the road and not on the phone or vehicle dashboard.
Per WisDOT, peak travel hours are typically between noon and 8 p.m. on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the entirety of the following Sunday. If possible, travel outside these times for a quicker drive time and less traffic. If driving at peak times is unavoidable, leave plenty of extra time when scheduling activities so you do not feel pressured to drive unsafely.
Unexpected vehicle issues can derail Thanksgiving plans and leave you in an unsafe position on a busy highway. A few days before you leave, check your vehicle’s oil, tire pressure and fluid levels. This gives you enough time to handle any issues and prepare your vehicle for safe travel.
Wisconsin weather is unpredictable. No matter what the weather forecast says, you never know if you will be driving in brisk fall weather or snow over Thanksgiving weekend. Be prepared for whatever comes your way. Make sure you have blankets, flashlights, and nonperishable food items in the car. Do not forget the ice scraper and road salt.
No matter how many precautions you take while traveling over Thanksgiving, accidents still occur. If a reckless driver injures you in a car accident, trust our South Milwaukee auto accident lawyer to help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact Martin Law Office, S.C. at 414-856-4010 to schedule a consultation now.
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