Are There More Car Accidents Around The Holidays?

December 13, 2021

Car accidents tend to increase during the holiday season. A main reason for this is because many holiday festivities involve alcohol consumption, which leads to more drunk driving accidents. There are many factors that lead to the increase in car accidents during the holiday season. The following includes reasons why car accidents increase.

Drunk Driving

When some people have off work for the holidays, they may celebrate by going to parties and drinking. More people consuming alcohol leads to more drunk driving collisions. There are more parties and celebrations during this time of the year.

More People Are Traveling

There tends to be more drivers on the roads during the holiday season, as people travel both short and long distances to see family and friends. Overall, there are more cars on the roadways during the holidays. Increased traffic leads to more possibilities for collisions.

Additionally, more individuals are out shopping and running errands for the holidays. The likelihood of being in a vehicle more frequently during this time leads to the greater possibility of a car accident.

Poor Weather Conditions

Poor weather conditions can make driving treacherous during the holiday season. In the winter, roads can be slippery and slick due to snow, slush, and ice, especially black ice. The combination of inclement weather and increased traffic leads to more collisions and injuries.

Drowsy Driving

The demands of the holiday season, such as errands, shopping, decorating, and hosting parties, might be tiring. This can result in lack of sleep and driver fatigue. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), you are three times more likely to be involved in a car accident if you are drowsy. When you drive while drowsy, your capacity to detect hazards is impaired.

How Can Drivers Stay Safe During the Holiday Season?

You should not feel like you have to stay home and miss out on festivities with family and friends. You can travel and be safe during the holiday season if you follow some simple driving tips. Some ways you can stay safe during the holiday season include:

Do not drink and drive.
Obey all traffic laws.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Do not text and drive.
Allow plenty of time to get to your destination, and do not speed.
Do not drive aggressively or respond to aggressive drivers.
Know your route before you leave, and plan for traffic delays.
Pack an emergency kit that includes food, water, and a first-aid kit.
Frequently check for updates on weather conditions, and plan your route accordingly.

Wilmington Car Accident Lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Can Help You Navigate a Holiday Collision

You should always practice safe driving, especially during the holiday season. If you have been injured by a negligent driver during the holidays, contact our Wilmington car accident lawyers at Jacobs & Crumplar, P.A. Call us at 302-656-5445 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington and Millsboro, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Dover, New Castle County, and Sussex County.