Now that it is officially November, the holiday season is quickly approaching. Many Americans will celebrate Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the New Year through festive gatherings with friends and family, long road trips, and ample food and alcohol consumption.
Unfortunately, the cold winter months are associated with many hazards that may put drivers at risk of being injured or otherwise involved in a car accident. In order to stay safe during this time of year, you must be aware of the most common driving conditions.
The following are some of the most common driving dangers during the holidays:
Drunk driving – 25 percent of Americans admit that they drink more alcohol during the holiday season compared to any other time of year, according to the 2019 Holiday Drinking and Driving Report. A 2018 report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said 28 percent of fatal car accidents occur in December, while the American Automobile Association (AAA) reported that New Year’s Day is among the year’s deadliest for drunk driving accidents.
Distracted driving – From communicating through calls and texts for pleasure or work to checking social media and staying updated on current events, cell phones have become a part of our daily lives. Unfortunately, many people continue to use their phones while they are behind the wheel. Distracted driving can take your hands off the wheel, your eyes away from the road, and your attention away from the primary task of driving. Distracted driving has become one of the most common causes of car accidents in recent years.
Fatigued driving – Whether it’s attending many events or longs spent holiday shopping, the holidays can be a busy time of year, which can result in reduced sleep schedules. Drowsy driving at night or during a long road trip can lead to falling asleep behind the wheel and subsequently causing an accident.
Stressed driving – The pressure of finding gifts for your loved ones and doing too much within a short time span can be quite stressful. Stress can cause drivers to drive aggressively and recklessly without considering the safety of others on the road.
Inclement weather – The cold winter months means plenty of snow, ice, rain, and winds. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration, one in four weather-related traffic crashes involved snow or ice. Driving over icy or wet conditions can cause your vehicle to lose its grip on the road and collide with another driver or object.
These driving hazards can make the holiday season not so jolly or merry. But knowing that they are out there and taking some preemptive action can help you be more protected against accidents and injuries.
Injured in a car accident in Hartford or Stratford? Call Zayas Law Firm at (860) 854-9156 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule a free consultation. Serving Connecticut since 1990!