Memorial Day weekend is just around the corner, marking the unofficial start of summer – and one of the busiest times on Virginia’s highways. Travel experts predict record-high traffic this year. AAA Mid-Atlantic estimated around 1.2 million Virginians traveled for Memorial Day weekend in 2024, with roughly 90% of them driving to their destinations. All those extra cars on the road unfortunately mean a higher risk of crashes, injuries, and Memorial Day traffic accidents. Both national and local data show a clear spike in roadway dangers during this holiday period. It’s a sobering reminder for families in Lynchburg and across Virginia to stay alert and drive safely during the upcoming long weekend.
More Cars ➡️ More Crash Risk
Holiday travel brings heavy traffic to the Greater Lynchburg area and beyond. Memorial Day has been one of the busiest travel weekends since before the pandemic. Highways from Lynchburg toward popular destinations (the Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia Beach, D.C., etc.) see surging traffic volumes as people head out for vacations, graduations, and family cookouts. Virginia State Police warn that the influx of vehicles requires everyone to plan for congested highways and delays. In past years, traffic on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend has been especially gridlocked.
While not ideal to discuss, it is a fact that more cars on the road lead to more crashes. Wet weather, late-night driving, or simply the sheer number of travelers can turn dangerous. Distracted or impaired driving tends to rise during celebrations, further elevating accident risk. With so many people eager to kick off summer fun, it’s critical for Lynchburg area drivers to remember that Memorial Day weekend isn’t just another few days on the road – it’s a high-risk period when extra caution could save a life.
Safety Tips for Memorial Day Weekend Road Trips
To enjoy your long weekend and avoid becoming a Memorial Day accident statistic, keep these safety tips in mind as you hit the road:
- Plan and Avoid Peak Times: Start your trip smart. Map out your route and check traffic conditions (use VDOT’s 511 Virginia system for real-time updates vsp.virginia.gov). If possible, travel during off-peak hours; for example, leave after the Friday evening rush or early in the morning to miss the worst congestion. Give yourself plenty of extra time so you’re not rushing.
- Buckle Up Every Trip: Seat belts save lives only if you wear them. Make sure everyone is strapped in on every ride, even short ones. Virginia law requires seatbelt use, and police will be enforcing it. More importantly, your seatbelt is your best defense in a crash.
- Never Drive Impaired: Memorial Day barbecues and beach trips often involve celebrating – but if you drink, don’t drive. Plan for a sober ride home, whether that means a designated driver, calling an Uber/Lyft, or staying overnight. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and extremely dangerous. Police across Virginia will be running DUI checkpoints and patrols.
- Follow the Speed Limit and Drive Defensively: With crowded highways, speeding is especially risky – you have less time to react and a greater chance of losing control. Obey posted speed limits and adjust for road conditions (heavy rain or traffic should mean slowing down).
- Focus on the road, not your phone. Virginia’s hands-free law means it’s illegal to hold a phone while driving. Set up your GPS and music before you start driving. If you need to send a text or take a call, pull over safely or ask a passenger for help.
- Prepare Your Vehicle and Yourself: A bit of preparation can go a long way toward a safe road trip. Ensure your car is road-ready – check your tire pressure and tread, top off fluids, and address any maintenance issues before you travel. Broken-down vehicles can lead to roadside crashes or long delays. And don’t forget to rest up – driving while drowsy can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Take breaks during long drives, switch drivers if possible.
Injured in a Memorial Day Accident? We’re Here to Help.
Even with every precaution, accidents can still happen. If you or a loved one is hurt in a crash over the Memorial Day weekend, know that help is available. As a Virginia personal injury law firm based in Lynchburg & Rustburg, OHWV has decades of experience assisting car accident victims throughout Central Virginia. We understand how a sudden holiday tragedy can upend your life, and we are committed to providing compassionate, skilled legal support to those in need.
Protect your rights: Don’t hesitate to speak with an experienced Lynchburg car accident lawyer from our team if you’ve been injured by a negligent driver. We can explain your legal options, deal with the insurance companies, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost time from work, and pain and suffering. Memorial Day traffic accidents can leave lasting physical and emotional scars – but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.
OHWV is here for you. Our attorneys will listen to your story and give clear guidance on the next steps. If we take your case, you won’t pay any attorney fees unless we win compensation for you. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. On this Memorial Day and beyond, we wish you safe travels – and remember that if the worst happens, our dedicated legal team is ready to help you get justice and move forward.
Sources:
- AAA Mid-Atlantic
- Virginia State Police – Memorial Day Weekend Statistics (2023–2024)
- National Safety Council Â
