You need to make sure you have enough time to make your trip when you intend to travel during the Thanksgiving holiday. It is best to leave on the day before, as early as you can. If you are unable to leave early, then at least try to start traveling after the end of rush hour traffic. It is also best that you not travel directly after getting off work. Make sure you have some time to relax, even eat a meal, before hitting the road.
Why? Because that way, you are less likely to indulge in any episodes of road rage or aggression. That will not only keep you safe, it will also make sure you do not have to file any insurance claims because of a senseless accident.