Why Do Car Accidents Increase During the Holidays?

The holiday season is a joyful time. It is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and travel. However, holidays also come with an increase in car accidents. This is especially true for the period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. During the holiday season, roads often become dangerous due to various reasons. Holidays may come when hazardous driving conditions such as snow and increased traffic volume are more likely. Additionally, during the holidays, drivers tend to engage in risky behavior, such as drunk driving. Understanding why car accidents increase during the holidays can help you take precautions to protect yourself and others on the road. Below, we discuss reasons car accidents increase during the holidays.

#1:  Increased Traffic

The holiday season is synonymous with increased traffic as millions of people hit the road to visit loved ones, attend festive events, and go shopping. This increase in traffic increases the risk of accidents. Traffic congestion can lead to driver frustration and impatience, which may, in turn, result in risky behaviors such as speeding, tailgating, and running red lights. To minimize the risk of an accident, consider traveling during less busy times and using navigation apps to avoid high-traffic areas.

#2: Increased Drunk Driving

The holidays come with increased drinking at events, family gatherings, and parties. Regrettably, this leads to an increase in drunk driving collisions. According to the NHTSA, December drunk driving deaths are the highest. In December 2022 alone, the NHTSA estimates that 1,062 people died in drunk driving-related accidents. Alcohol impairs reaction time, coordination, and judgment, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.

#3: Distractions and Holiday Stress

Distracted driving is another reason why car accidents increase during the holidays. Drivers may be distracted by holiday planning and shopping. Drivers may be preoccupied with texting, reading messages, talking on the phone, and using their phones for navigation. On top of these distractions, drivers may experience “holiday stress.” Distractions and holiday stress can impact a driver’s focus. It can significantly impact a driver’s ability to react to road hazards. Holiday stress may also lead to frustration and impatience, resulting in risky behaviors like speeding.

#4: Speeding

Drivers with tight schedules to reach destinations or meet family obligations may speed up to save time. Speeding entails going over the speed limit and driving too fast for road conditions. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions. To reduce the risk of accidents, drivers should plan ahead, leave early, and prioritize safety over speed.

#5: Bad Weather Conditions

The holiday season comes with inclement weather, such as snow, ice, rain, and fog, which can create hazardous driving conditions. Slippery roads and decreased visibility can increase the risk of accidents, especially for drivers not used to driving in such conditions.

What To Do if You’re Involved in a Car Accident During the Holidays?

If you’re involved in a car accident during the holidays, it’s crucial to take the proper steps to protect your health and legal rights. Here are the steps to take after being in a car accident during the holiday season;

• Call the police to report the accident
• Seek prompt medical attention
• Document the accident
• Notify your insurance company
• Contact a car accident attorney

Legal Help Is Available

If you were in a holiday car accident, our Charleston car accident lawyer at Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm can help you understand your legal rights and options. You can reach us by calling 843-310-5555 or filling out our online contact form.

Source:

nhtsa.gov/drive-sober-december-and-every-month