Bart Durham Personal Injury News & Blog

Thanksgiving Weekend: Why Nashville Sees More Auto & Truck Accidents

Written by Bart Durham Injury Law | Nov 21, 2025 4:06:57 PM

Thanksgiving weekend brings together families across Kentucky and Tennessee for one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the deadliest times on the road. Between long-distance drives, unpredictable weather, and an increase in large truck traffic, highways become hot spots for serious accidents.

Every year, thousands of travelers hit the road to visit loved ones or return from Black Friday shopping sprees. This surge in traffic — combined with fatigue, stress, and holiday distractions — creates the perfect storm for collisions.

Understanding why these accidents happen and how to stay safe can help protect you and your family this season with a truck accident attorney in Nashville.

Auto and Truck Accidents Spike Over Thanksgiving

Several factors contribute to the rise in crashes during Thanksgiving weekend:

1. Higher Traffic Volume

Millions of Americans travel more than 50 miles for the holiday. Interstates like I-40, I-24, and I-65 around Nashville see bumper-to-bumper congestion, which increases the risk of rear-end and multi-vehicle collisions.

2. Fatigue and Long Drives

After long family gatherings or late-night shopping trips, many drivers hit the road tired. Fatigue slows reaction time and impairs judgment — especially dangerous when sharing the road with heavy trucks.

3. Poor Weather Conditions

Fall weather can bring rain, fog, and even ice to Kentucky and Tennessee. Reduced visibility and slippery roads make it harder for both cars and trucks to stop safely.

4. Impaired or Distracted Driving

Holiday celebrations often involve alcohol, and even a small amount can impair driving ability. Add cell phones, navigation systems, and in-car distractions, and it’s clear why vigilance is essential.

5. The Added Risk of Large Trucks During the Holidays

Large trucks are vital for holiday commerce — delivering food, gifts, and retail inventory across Kentucky and Tennessee. But their presence on already crowded roads adds significant risk.

Due to their size and weight, trucks need much more time and distance to stop. A moment of inattention or poor weather can turn a minor error into a life-threatening collision.

A qualified truck accident attorney in Nashville understands how to investigate these crashes thoroughly. Trucking accidents often involve multiple parties — drivers, employers, and insurance companies — all working quickly to limit liability.

Having someone on your side who knows how to navigate these complexities can make all the difference.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents Over Thanksgiving

During the Thanksgiving rush, truck accidents often stem from:

  • Driver fatigue from long delivery hours and tight deadlines
  • Speeding to meet schedules or make up for traffic delays
  • Poor vehicle maintenance, such as worn brakes or bald tires
  • Improperly loaded cargo that shifts during travel
  • Weather-related mishaps like hydroplaning or jackknifing

Each of these scenarios can cause catastrophic injuries or fatalities, especially for drivers in smaller vehicles. If you or a loved one is hurt, consulting a truck accident attorney in Nashville early can help preserve vital evidence and protect your legal options.

Staying Safe on Nashville Roads This Thanksgiving

While you can’t control other drivers, you can take precautions to reduce your own risk:

  • Plan ahead: Travel during off-peak hours when traffic is lighter.
  • Stay alert: Take breaks every two hours or share driving duties.
  • Avoid distractions: Put phones on “Do Not Disturb” mode.
  • Watch the weather: Slow down in rain or fog, and increase following distance.
  • Stay patient: Heavy traffic and delays are frustrating, but speeding or aggressive driving only heightens danger.

If a collision does occur, remain calm, call emergency services, document the scene, and seek medical care — even if you feel fine. Some injuries take time to appear.

When to Contact a Truck Accident Attorney in Nashville

After a serious crash, victims often feel overwhelmed by pain, confusion, and paperwork. Insurance companies may reach out quickly, offering settlements that don’t reflect the true cost of recovery.

This is when having an experienced truck accident attorney in Nashville becomes invaluable. A skilled attorney can:

  • Investigate accident reports, trucking logs, and maintenance records
  • Work with experts to reconstruct the crash
  • Handle communication with insurance companies
  • Ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost income, and long-term care needs

No one should have to face that battle alone, especially during the holidays.

Compassionate Legal Support from Bart Durham Injury Law

For decades, Bart Durham Injury Law has served Kentucky and Tennessee families with dedication and compassion. Our legal team understands how devastating a serious accident can be, especially during a season meant for gratitude and togetherness.

If you’ve been injured in a car or truck crash, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. Our experienced attorneys at Bart Durham Injury Law can help you understand your rights, build your case, and fight for the compensation you deserve.  Contact us 24/7/365 for your FREE consultation.