Thanksgiving Travel Safety Tips for Central Virginia Drivers


Keith Marcus | nov 04 2025 16:00

As Thanksgiving approaches, roads across Richmond, Henrico, and Chesterfield get busier with families heading to gatherings. With heavier traffic, unpredictable weather, and increased wildlife activity (especially deer), a little preparation goes a long way. As Richmond personal injury lawyers and trial attorneys, Blank & Marcus has seen how quickly a holiday trip can change after a crash. Here’s how to stay safe—and what to do if the unexpected happens.

1) Watch for Deer—Especially at Dusk and Dawn

November is peak deer-collision season in Virginia, and nearly half of deer-related crashes happen between October and December. Be extra alert on I-95, Route 288, Chippenham Parkway, and rural roads in Goochland and Powhatan.

  • Scan the shoulders and use high beams when there’s no oncoming traffic.

  • If a deer enters the roadway, brake firmly and stay in your lane—swerving causes many rollover and head-on collisions.

  • After any impact, pull off safely and call 911.

If you’re hurt in a deer-related wreck caused by another driver’s negligence, a car accident lawyer in Richmond, Virgina drivers trust can help you navigate insurance and UM/UIM coverage.

2) Plan Around Peak Traffic Windows

The heaviest Thanksgiving travel typically hits Wednesday afternoon and Sunday evening. Consider driving early morning or on less congested days to reduce stress and risk. Leave extra time for backups near Short Pump, Midlothian, and downtown Richmond interchanges. Use hands-free navigation and set your route before you move.

3) Prepare for Bad Weather and Early Nightfall

Ice, cold rain, and sudden flurries can arrive fast—and early sunsets reduce visibility. Before you go:

  • Check tires (tread depth and pressure), brakes, battery, and wiper blades.

  • Top off washer fluid rated for freezing temps and test your defrosters.

  • Pack a cold-weather kit: blanket, flashlight, phone charger, first-aid supplies, water, and snacks.

  • Increase following distance to at least 4–6 seconds in wet or icy conditions.

In multi-vehicle pileups or chain-reaction crashes, Blank & Marcus can identify all responsible parties.

4) Fight Distractions

Put the phone away. Even a quick glance can mean 100+ feet traveled blind at highway speeds. Use Do Not Disturb, mount your device, and rely on voice commands. If you must text, pull over safely. Distracted driving is a common cause of rear-end collisions and intersection crashes. Blank & Marcus can help you in this situation year-round.

 

5) Don’t Drive Drowsy—or Impaired

Holiday schedules, big meals, and long miles can lead to fatigue. Rotate drivers, rest every two hours, and avoid heavy sedatives or alcohol before driving. Never drive under the influence. If you plan to drink, arrange a sober ride or use a rideshare. Blank & Marcus represents victims injured by impaired motorists.

 

6) Share the Road with Pedestrians, Cyclists, and Rideshares

Shopping districts and event venues bring more people on foot and more Uber/Lyft traffic. Slow down in lots and neighborhoods, check mirrors before opening doors, and yield in crosswalks. If you’re a passenger hurt in a rideshare crash, call Blank & Marcus to help untangle the insurance complexities.

7) Buckle Up Everyone—Every Trip

Ensure car seats are installed correctly, boosters are used until seatbelts fit properly, and everyone is buckled before you shift into drive. Proper restraints dramatically reduce catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury.

8) Know Virginia Rules That Matter on Holiday Roads

  • Move Over for stopped emergency vehicles and work crews.

  • Headlights On in rain, snow, or fog.

  • Keep Right, Pass Left to reduce sudden lane changes and road-rage incidents.

What to Do After a Crash in Central Virginia

If an accident happens in Richmond, Henrico, Chesterfield, Mechanicsville, Midlothian, Short Pump, Petersburg, Colonial Heights, or Ashland:

  1. Call 911 and get medical care—even if symptoms seem minor.

  2. Stay Safe: Move vehicles out of traffic if you can do so safely; turn on hazards.

  3. Document: Exchange info, photograph vehicles, debris, skid marks, weather, and lighting.

  4. Avoid Recorded Statements to insurers before you know your injuries and rights.

  5. Get the Police Report and follow up with your doctors.

  6. Call Blank & Marcus to handle insurers, investigate fault, and protect your claim under Virginia’s statute of limitations.

Why Injured Virginians Turn to Blank & Marcus

Since 1951, our Richmond trial lawyers have stood up for crash victims and families in wrongful death, car, truck, motorcycle, pedestrian, and bicycle cases. We prepare every case as if it will go to a jury, which often leads to stronger settlements. We offer a free consultation and contingency fees—no fee unless we recover compensation.

 

Whether you need a car accident lawyer Richmond VA, Henrico car accident attorney, Chesterfield car accident lawyer, or guidance after a hit-and-run or drunk-driving crash, Blank & Marcus is here to help.

 

Ya sea que necesite un abogado de accidentes automovilísticos en Richmond, VA; un abogado de accidentes en Henrico; un abogado de accidentes en Chesterfield; o asesoría después de un choque con fuga o un accidente causado por conducir bajo los efectos del alcohol, Blank & Marcus está aquí para ayudarle.