Thanksgiving signifies one of the busiest travel spans of the year in the state of Florida, as millions of people travel to connect with family and friends. Though passenger cars will dominate the roadway, many large commercial trucks will also join in the holiday traffic. As vehicles converge and other factors are considered, trucking accidents become more prevalent during the holiday season.
Increased Traffic Volume
The sheer number of vehicles on the road during Thanksgiving creates a congested environment, heightening the potential for accidents. Truck drivers, who require more time and space to maneuver, face challenges in such conditions. The combination of passenger vehicles and large trucks navigating narrow lanes and merging traffic can lead to collisions, especially when drivers fail to adjust their speed and following distances accordingly.
Driver Fatigue
Driving for long periods, along with demanding delivery times, can result in fatigue experienced by the driver. Fatigue can lead to longer reaction times and decreased judgment for all drivers, increasing the likelihood of accidents. While regulations limit the number of hours and very tight schedules exist, demand during the holidays causes some drivers to ignore the regulations, resulting in dangerous situations.
Adverse Weather Conditions
The weather in Florida during the holiday season can be unpredictable, with sudden rain causing the visibility and traction on the roads to decrease due to the wet surfaces of the roads. Truck drivers, with slippery roads and reduced visibility, must be alert and travel at slower speeds. Unfortunately, all drivers don't adjust their driving to the circumstances and accidents may occur.
Impaired Driving
The holiday season is associated with increased social gatherings, and unfortunately, this can lead to a rise in impaired driving incidents. While truck drivers are subject to strict regulations regarding substance use, impaired driving among other motorists can pose significant risks. A collision between an impaired driver and a commercial truck can have devastating consequences due to the size and weight disparity.
Inexperienced Drivers
During the holidays, some individuals who are not regular drivers may take to the roads to visit family and friends. These less experienced drivers may not be accustomed to handling their vehicles in heavy traffic or adverse conditions, increasing the risk of accidents involving commercial trucks.
Navigating the Holiday Roads Safely
To mitigate the risks associated with increased trucking accidents during the Thanksgiving holiday, both truck drivers and other motorists should take proactive measures:
- Maintain Safe Distances: Allow ample space between your vehicle and large trucks to account for their longer stopping distances.
- Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on the road and avoid distractions, especially in congested traffic.
- Adhere to Speed Limits: Adjust your speed according to road conditions and traffic flow, even if it means driving below the posted speed limit.
- Plan Ahead: Anticipate potential delays and plan your route to avoid high-traffic areas during peak times.
- Stay Rested: Ensure you are well-rested before embarking on long drives to maintain alertness.
Though the holidays are a time of celebration, they also increase the risks of operations on the roadways. By learning and recognizing the many contributors to trucking accidents, and doing your part to reduce risks, you can ensure a safer trip for everyone. If you or someone you love is involved in a trucking accident during the holidays, or at any time during the year, The Florida Law Group is here to help navigate the complicated legal claims process.