Heavy Traffic Can Affect Number of Car Insurance Claims

Times of heavy vehicle traffic are likely to result in higher auto accident rates and more injuries and car insurance claims.

The recession has led to a downward trend in travel over the past couple of years, but a new report from the American Automobile Association predicts that 38.4 million people will travel over the Thanksgiving weekend. Last year, 37.8 million people traveled for Thanksgiving.

Of that total, 33.2 million people are expected to travel in automobiles, which would be a 2.1 percent increase over last year's total. A total of 86 percent of people with Thanksgiving travel plans intend to go by automobile, according to the AAA.

The average journey this Thanksgiving will be 815 miles, indicating that along with increased traffic in some areas, there may also be a higher number of drivers who are drowsy or somehow distracted. With that in mind, driving cautiously will be more advisable than ever around Thanksgiving, especially in light of the increased number of impaired drivers that also tends to be on the road that particular weekend.

Keeping Auto Insurance Claims Down

People may also find that this time of year, they are more likely to encounter difficult winter driving conditions. With that in mind, Weather.com offers drivers some tips that include not using cruise control on icy roads and not passing snow plows. Other such tips include keeping lights on and braking gently to lower the risk of skidding.

In the event of snow and ice, it's important to remember to keep a car's windows and windshield clear, both for the driver's view and to avoid allowing other cars to be struck by debris. Another common tip is for drivers to carry an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, blanket and first aid equipment.

When it comes to long road trips, drivers can also take other methods to prepare themselves, such as making sure tires are properly inflated and that other basic steps have been taken. Another important part of tire safety is ensuring that they are not worn out or otherwise unsafe for travel.

Snacking and meals will also be a factor for anyone taking a long road trip. But instead of eating while driving, it is much safer to stop for rest and meals, as well as to make any needed phone calls.

Eating while driving is actually considered a form of distracted driving comparable in some ways to texting or using a cell phone while driving. Other activities, such as personal grooming behind the wheel, fall into this category as well.

People who are traveling with children should be especially focused on safety. Parents are generally advised to provide children on long road trips with games or other diversions, as well as snacks to help reduce the chance that they could become a distraction during the trip.

The Department of Transportation also recently reminded parents of the importance of buckling their children up and following safety seat laws.

According to the DOT, 7,600 children under age 5 have been saved by child safety seats in the past three decades, and that the seats have helped many other children avoid serious injury in accidents over the years.

Overall, the holidays will see a dramatic increase in the number of people using the nation's highways, airports, and other transportation infrastructure. The busier conditions will require a greater awareness of other travelers and of basic safety procedures. Fewer accidents this holiday season will also result in fewer injuries and car insurance claims.