Why Traffic Accidents Increase During the Holidays

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveals that there are more auto accidents during the holiday seasons than during non-holiday seasons. Several factors can contribute to increased car accidents during the holiday.

Being aware of these factors as a driver can help keep you and other road users safe during the holiday. Below are the most common contributing factors to holiday auto accidents in San Diego.

• Peak Travel Times: The holiday season is a busy time for travel as most people visit different places to celebrate and spend time with family and friends. As a result, more cars on the road can increase traffic volume, increasing the chances of traffic accidents. A great tip for staying safe this holiday season is to plan your trip to avoid the last-minute rush. It is also wise to avoid traveling during busy hours.

• Drunk Driving: Drunk driving is ranked one of the leading causes of traffic accidents in the United States. According to the NHTSA, every day, people in America die in auto accidents that involve drunk drivers. In 2020, about 11,654 people lost their lives in drunk-driving crashes. This could worsen during the holidays because individuals have more opportunities to drink and drive. You can help reduce the number of crashes caused by drunk driving by not drinking and driving. In addition, if you are having a holiday party with friends or family, ensure the attendees get to their homes safely.

• Distracted Driving: Another reason for increased auto crashes during the holidays is distracted driving. For most people, holidays mean juggling between endless lists of activities, which may cause drivers to be distracted. Distracted driving causes traffic crashes when a driver engages in something that captures their focus and prevents them from responding to road conditions. To help reduce the possibility of being involved in an accident during the holiday season, you must take extra precautions and stay focused on the road.

• Fatigued Driving: The holiday seasons are one of the busiest times of the year. When drivers spend more time on the road traveling long distances, they are bound to get exhausted. Fatigued or exhausted drivers are at risk of falling asleep while driving, which can increase the risk of traffic accidents during the holiday period.

If you have been driving for a while and feel a little exhausted, you should stop and take a break. A good rest or sleep during the night can also help you stay alert throughout your journey.

Get in Touch with a San Diego Auto Accident Attorney Today

Holidays are a great time to share good moments with our loved ones; an accident is the last thing anyone expects. But, unfortunately, this happens all the time. If you have been involved in a San Diego auto accident, the team at Laureti & Associates is ready to help you pursue justice and compensation.

Call us at (619) 389-2794 for a free case evaluation by our lead San Diego auto accident attorney, Anthony Laureti.