New Study Finds Thanksgiving Travel Especially Risky in Montana

Thanksgiving is all about family, food, and making memories. But before you pack up the pumpkin pie and hit the road, it’s worth remembering that travel during the holiday can get risky, especially here in Montana.

Montana Ranks Among the Most Dangerous States for Holiday Travel

A new study found that Montana ranks sixth in the nation for fatal crashes around Thanksgiving. That’s not exactly the kind of list we want to be on. Over a five year span, Montana averaged about 10.5 fatal crashes per million residents during the Thanksgiving weekend , nearly 60 percent higher than the national average. That means drivers here face a much higher risk than most other parts of the country.

The Riskiest Time to Be on Montana Roads

If you’re heading home after the holiday, take note: Sunday evening between 5 and 6 p.m. is when Montana roads are at their most dangerous. It makes sense because everyone’s tired, traffic’s heavier, and bad weather can make things even worse. If you can, leave earlier in the day, build in a few breaks, and don’t rush the drive. Getting home safely is always worth the extra time.

READ MORE: Montana Drivers Face Nation’s Highest Risk of Animal Crashes

Why Thanksgiving Travel Turns Risky

More people travel for Thanksgiving than almost any other time of year, and that means crowded highways and impatient drivers. Add in icy roads, late night travel, and people who’ve had one too many at dinner, and the odds of an accident go way up. Across the U.S., the hour between 6 and 7 p.m. is the deadliest for Thanksgiving drivers and Montana’s numbers track right along with that.

How Montana Compares to Other States

Montana isn’t alone in seeing more deadly crashes during Thanksgiving. Southern states like Mississippi, South Carolina, and West Virginia see even higher fatality rates. On the other hand, smaller states like Rhode Island and Vermont have much lower crash numbers, likely thanks to shorter distances and less time spent behind the wheel.

Tips to Keep Your Thanksgiving Trip Safe

Attorney James Helm from TopDog Law shared a few simple but important reminders for anyone planning to travel this Thanksgiving. He suggests avoiding the riskiest times to drive, especially on Sunday evening when traffic is heaviest and drivers are often tired. Give yourself plenty of time for the trip and take breaks along the way to stay alert and focused.

Never drive under the influence. If you’re celebrating with alcohol, plan ahead by using a designated driver or arranging a ride-share. It’s also a good idea to make sure your car is ready for winter travel. Check that your tires have enough tread, your wipers are working properly, and your headlights are bright enough to handle dark or snowy roads. A little preparation now can make a big difference later, keeping you and your loved ones safe on the way to your Thanksgiving destination.

Montana’s Rural Roads Bring Their Own Challenges

Our state’s wide-open spaces are beautiful but they can also make for long, tiring drives. Between icy stretches, dark highways, and limited cell service in some areas, it’s easy to underestimate how quickly conditions can change. Keep an eye on the forecast, stop when you need to, and don’t push yourself if you’re tired.

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Arrive Safe, Stay Thankful

Thanksgiving is meant to be spent around the table, not stranded on the side of the road. Plan ahead, drive smart, and take care of yourself and the people riding with you. The turkey will wait, your safety comes first.