For most Americans, Memorial Day Weekend is a chance to enjoy a three-day weekend and celebrate the people that have fought for our freedom and this country. Many use this time to relax and recharge by hosting backyard barbecues, taking vacations, and spending time with loved ones. With the Covid-19 vaccine being available to most, many have already had at least one dose of the vaccine and are feeling more comfortable with places reopening and resuming some type of normalcy. However, Memorial Day Weekend is considered a dangerous holiday for those travelling on U.S. roadways as many motorists engage in irresponsible and reckless behavior.
Estimates for Memorial Day 2021
Memorial Day is associated with many deaths and injuries from unnecessary accidents. This year is no different. In fact, the National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that we will see 415 deaths this Memorial Day holiday weekend and another 47,300 injuries from car accidents.
AAA Travel expects the U.S. to see a larger number of people travelling this year when compared to last year. More than 37 million people are anticipated to travel 50 or more miles from home from May 27 through May 31, which is a 60% jump from last year.
- Get a good night’s sleep before heading out on a long road trip. If you are travelling a long distance, then remember to take regular breaks and do not drive when you are tired. Fatigued driver is just as dangerous as drunk or drugged driving.
- Get an early start or allow yourself adequate time to travel to your destination. Plan for traffic and don’t let your timing get you upset or distracted.
- Put your cell phone and other devices away so that they cannot distract you from your main task at hand: driving.
- Never drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Plan for a designated driver or call a cab or take an Uber or Lyft.
- Maintain a good distance from the car or vehicle in front of you.
How Can I Avoid a Collision this Memorial Day Weekend?
There are many safety precautions that you can take, which we have outlined below, but remember, you cannot control the actions and behaviors of other drivers. A few important tips for staying safe on the roads this holiday weekend include, but are not limited to:
- Always buckle up no matter how far or short the distance you are travelling. Seat belts save lives. Make sure your kids are buckled up as well or in their appropriate safety seats.
- If you plan to drink once you get to your destination, then assign a designated driver or use public transportation or rideshare programs, like Lyft or Uber. You have lots of options, but getting behind the wheel drunk or drugged should never be one of them.
- Stay off your phone when driving – this is a major distraction and can lead to serious accidents.
What Do I Do If I Am Involved in a Car Crash Over Memorial Day Weekend?
If you find yourself involved in a car accident over the holiday weekend, then your health and safety are always the number one priority. If someone is seriously harmed, call 911. If not, then exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver involved in the accident. Take pictures and videos of all damages and any road evidence that could be washed away. You will want to get police to the scene to file an accident report and from there, you can make a claim with your insurance company.
If you or someone you love is dealing with serious injuries from a car accident caused by another person, our Florida Car Accident Attorneys at Whittel & Melton are available 24/7 to assist with your claim. We can help to protect your rights and make sure that you recover financial compensation for all of your losses. We realize that you may be struggling with your finances at this time and dealing with the insurance companies involved can be a headache. Between medical bills and possibly being unable to work, you may not know what to do and how to survive. We can help you through the process of filing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. Call us today at 866-608-5529 or contact us online. We have several offices throughout the state of Florida and can begin helping you right away.