Across the nation over the next month, many Americans will embark on a longer-than-average journey to spend time with loved ones while enjoying food and fellowship around the dinner table. It's a time of year when those away at school come home to catch up and visit while spreading out in front of football games on TV and basking in the warmth of company sorely missed during the long months away from home.
Many others will be hitting the road along with you as well, and practicing safe Thanksgiving driving is essential to ensure you and your loved ones avoid any collisions or mishaps before this holiday's festivities. Here are a few tips for driving on Thanksgiving to see you through a special time where turkey and trimmings are the norm, and pumpkin pie rounds off the perfect meal with loved ones.
Thorough Vehicle Inspection
Long trips are not a time to neglect any detail while looking over your car beforehand. Transmission, brakes, coolant, and oil fluids should all be topped off, and defrosting before you leave is important after any evening with low temps. Make sure you're turkey-ready either using our complimentary pick-up and delivery, Home by INFINITI OF DENVER, or by visiting us in our Service Department.
Schedule your pre-Thanksgiving service at infinitiofdenver.com/scheduleservice.
Have Ample Supplies
Making sure you have enough snacks and entertainment for the journey is important and can help cut down on stops during the trip. Many travelers who have unexpectedly become stuck wished they had blankets with them, as they can be a life-saving asset during an emergency.
GPS: A Handy Game-Changer
Most new INFINITI models come equipped with navigation. No longer do travelers have to guess when it comes to nearby restaurants or filling stations, or any inclement weather that may unexpectedly move in — you can also see traffic in real time.
Seeing After the Safety of Pets
During an interstate drive with heavy traffic, the presence of pets can be a distraction for drivers and passengers alike. A cage or harness may be the best option to ensure your furry loved ones make the trip as comfortably and safely as possible.
The Urgency of Buckling Up
Aside from being the law in most states, this is the easiest way to ensure a top level of safety in the event of a collision. Your younger passengers are best protected using child restraint seats and their respective seatbelts, ensuring everyone on board gets to enjoy the warmth and memory-making of this special holiday.
The Imminent Dangers of Distraction
Daydreaming of cranberries and stuffing sure to be at the table is a distraction in itself, but texting and talking on the phone can be just as dangerous as intoxicated driving. To ensure a safe arrival and avoid being caught off guard by traffic, it's best to pull over and handle anything on your phone with your hands off the wheel.
Ideal INFINITI Choices for the Journey
As you get ready for one of the most rewarding times of the year, the right vehicle makes the trip both comfortable and memorable. The current INFINITI QX60 is designed for long-trip potential, offering available ProPILOT Assist technology and safety features like Lane Departure Warning to help out if anything unexpected happens. With seating for up to eight, the INFINITI QX80 offers ideal space, a smooth ride, and features like Forward Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Detection to help keep everyone safe on the way to Thanksgiving dinner.
FAQ
How far in advance should I get my car serviced before a Thanksgiving road trip?
A week or two ahead is ideal, giving time to address anything unexpected. INFINITI OF DENVER's Home by INFINITI OF DENVER program can pick up and drop off your vehicle for service, so you don't have to build extra time into your schedule.
What should I keep in my car in case I get stuck in holiday traffic or weather?
Blankets, snacks, water, and a phone charger are all good basics to have on hand in case of an unexpected delay or emergency stop.
Which INFINITI models are best suited for long holiday road trips?
The QX60 and QX80 are both well-suited for long-distance travel, with available driver-assist features like ProPILOT Assist, Lane Departure Warning, and Forward Emergency Braking.
Is it safe to travel with pets during heavy Thanksgiving traffic?
Yes, as long as they're properly secured — a harness or travel crate helps keep pets safe and reduces distraction for the driver.