
Navigating the Busiest Thanksgiving Travel Season: Tips for a Smooth Journey
Personal Injury Law
As Thanksgiving approaches, millions of Americans are gearing up for what AAA predicts to be the busiest travel season in years. With an estimated 55.4 million Americans traveling at least 50 miles to reach their Thanksgiving destinations, it’s crucial to plan ahead to avoid frustrating delays and ensure a safe journey. As personal injury bloggers, we understand the significance of prioritizing safety during high-traffic periods and offer some valuable tips to help make your Thanksgiving travel experience as smooth as possible.
According to AAA’s latest projections, the majority of Thanksgiving travelers, approximately 49.13 million, will be embarking on their journeys by car. To determine the most and least congested travel periods between Wednesday, Nov. 22, and Sunday, Nov. 26, AAA collaborated with INRIX, a transportation analytics firm.
The key takeaway from their analysis is to hit the road as early as possible. INRIX data indicates that congestion generally worsens in the afternoon on each day from Nov. 22 to Nov. 26. However, on Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday, the peak travel times begin earlier in the day:
‘Worst’ times to drive, according to AAA/INRIX (all times local):
– Wednesday, Nov. 22: 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
– Thursday, Nov. 23: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
– Friday, Nov. 24: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
– Saturday, Nov. 25: 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
– Sunday, Nov. 26: 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Furthermore, the absolute worst time for congestion throughout the entire holiday weekend is the initial “worst” travel window on Wednesday, Nov. 22 (2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.). To avoid traffic, it is advisable to leave home during traffic-friendly hours, which typically occur earlier in the day or much later in the evening.
‘Best’ times to drive, according to AAA/INRIX (all times local):
– Wednesday, Nov. 22: Before 11 a.m.
– Thursday, Nov. 23: Before 10 a.m. or after 5 p.m.
– Friday, Nov. 24: Before 11:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m.
– Saturday, Nov. 25: Before 12:00 p.m.
– Sunday, Nov. 26: Before 12:00 p.m.
While these travel windows are considered the “best” and “worst” for U.S. drivers overall, it’s important to note that peak congestion can vary from city to city. INRIX data reveals that, for example, the San Francisco area’s peak congestion period is expected on Sunday at 7 p.m., specifically on the northbound side of the Santa Cruz Highway between Monterey and San Francisco. In Denver, however, peak congestion is anticipated on Friday at around 5:45 p.m., between Fort Collins and Denver on I-25 South.
As personal injury bloggers, we understand that accidents can still occur despite taking precautions. In the unfortunate event of a car accident during your Thanksgiving travels, it is crucial to seek guidance from personal injury attorneys. Personal injury law covers a wide range of cases related to accidents, product liability, and intentional harm. Skilled attorneys can provide the necessary support and legal expertise to help victims seek justice and fair compensation.
AAA’s data highlights the fact that Thanksgiving travel has consistently grown busier over the years. Since 2017, at least 50 million people have been projected to travel during each Thanksgiving season, a milestone previously achieved only in 2005 and 2007. It is essential to remain vigilant and prioritize safety on the road, especially during peak travel periods.
As we anticipate another busy Thanksgiving travel season, let’s strive to make our journeys safer and more enjoyable. By planning ahead, staying informed about traffic conditions, and adhering to best practices, we can ensure that our holiday travels are memorable for all the right reasons.
Tag: Personal injury law
Featured image suggestion: “Smooth Thanksgiving Travel: Road Map”







