Take Extra Care When Traveling Kentucky Roadways During The Thanksgiving Holiday

Thanksgiving is Thursday, and for many Kentuckians it means traveling hundreds of miles to visit friends and families.  It also means many non-residents will be traveling the unfamiliar roads of Kentucky.  Unfortunately, according to MainStreet.com, the roads in Kentucky are ranked as the 9^th worst roads in the United States.  Given this statistic, it is critical that Lexington drivers exercise caution when getting behind the wheel over the next few days. 

The worst roads were determined based on a score of poor condition of roads, deficient or obsolete bridges, the number of road fatalities per state in 2009 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled and congestion based on peak-hour volume-to-capacity ratios on each state’s roads.  Although the condition of Kentucky roads received a fairly high ranking (44 out of 50), the level of traffic and the number of fatalities in 2009, ranked 7th and 8th respectively, placed the state in the ninth worst roads ranking. 

The American Automobile Association (AAA) with IHS Global Insight estimates “42.5 million travelers will journey at least 50 miles from home” this upcoming Thanksgiving holiday beginning Wednesday, Nov. 23 and ending Sunday, Nov. 27.  The number of travelers is a four percent increase over last year’s number. 

The National Safety Council estimates there will be from 368 to 509 traffic fatalities nationwide.  This estimate is 19% less than last year’s 535 deaths.  The NSC also estimates there will between 36,800 and 50,900 serious injury accidents. 

The Kentucky State Police reports nine people died and 393 people were injured in traffic-related accidents during last year’s Thanksgiving holiday. This is the highest number of fatalities registered during any holiday period during the year. Of the fatal accidents, three were alcohol-related.In one tragic vehicle accident on Thanksgiving Day last year, two teenagers died when another car lost control near Louisville and crossed the median, hitting the teens’ car.  

In addition to other drivers, another danger the Insurance Information Institute warns of on Kentucky roadways is fatal deer collisions.  According to that group, more deer-vehicle collisions occur from October to December than at any other time of the year, and November is the peak month for these accidents.  The Kentucky State Police reports that while the percentage of deer collisions resulting in a fatality is low in Kentucky as compared to other states, motorists are urged to be extra cautious between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m. and between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m., when over 50% of all deer collisions occur. 

Drivers should also stay alert for changing weather conditions and slick roadways.  The weather in KY during this time of year can include rain or snow, and drivers should drive at a speed appropriate to the weather. 

Kentucky Forward reports the Lexington Division of Police will be out “in force through Nov. 27 sending a strong message – ‘Click It or Ticket.’” Seat belts are considered the most effective safety feature in a vehicle and the Kentucky law enforcement will be encouraging all drivers to follow the KY seat belt law.

Our Lexington car accident attorneys extend a warm Thanksgiving holiday wish for all.  We also urge everyone to drive safely, and sober, to ensure you get to your destination safely.