Fall Holidays are Dangerous for Motorists
Every year, from September to November, motorists all over the country experience unsafe roads with reckless drivers. During this time, the fall holiday season causes an unfortunate influx of bad behaviors on the roadway, including driving under the influence and driver fatigue. Here is what you need to know about the dangers of the days.
Labor Day
Labor Day weekend marks the end of what is known as the "100 deadliest days of summer" for teen drivers. Likewise, some of the highest rates of fatal collisions overall occur during this time. A three-year study found that Labor Day weekend totaled over 446 fatalities nationwide on average, recording a higher risk of crashes on rural roads and at night.
With Labor Day being most notable for people being out of office, more drivers are taking to the roads. This weekend also marks the end of summer, which can put people outdoors going boating or barbecuing, which may lend themselves to fatigue from being out in the sun or day drinking. Both can be a recipe for roadway disaster when it's time to go home at the end of the day.
Halloween
Growing up, the last thing anyone thinks about while trick-or-treating is the possibility of being involved in a car accident. Unfortunately, the rate of pedestrian-involved crashes is significantly greater on this night than others during this season. According to a 42-year study published in JAMA Pediatrics, there is a 43% higher pedestrian fatality rate on Halloween night. Furthermore, about 55% of these were children between the ages of four and eight.
Despite the steps that communities around the country have taken to lessen the possibility of this—shutting down certain streets during the night, having "trunk or treat" events at community centers, or implementing curfews—this remains a persistent problem. Remember, as a holiday with an increase in pedestrian activity, drivers should be taking extra precautions in residential areas or when encountering people walking on or near the roadway.
Thanksgiving and Black Wednesday
It's commonly known that Thanksgiving and the day before it (also known as "Black Wednesday") are two of the deadliest days of the year. Not only is there a significant increase in the number of cars on the road, but states that see major weather shifts in November also have to account for the potential of ice and snow, making roads slicker. However, the main reason these days can make the roadway so deadly is that drunk driving surges during this time.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), nearly 30% of fatalities during this holiday involve an alcohol-impaired driver, which is higher than the yearly average. Although this rate has decreased over the last 30 years, NSC estimates that over 485 fatalities were expected to occur on these days in 2020. This is the highest estimation since 2007.
Whether you are staying close to home or traveling across the country, no driver should get behind the wheel when under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Doing so is negligent in nature and may result in more severe consequences for the driver and others on the road.
Coral Springs Car Accident Attorneys
The fall holiday season is notable for many things, but being involved in a collision that results in the injury of you or another driver should not be commonplace. During this time of year, take extra care when traveling for holidays and spending time with loved ones.
Our Law Offices Cytryn & Velazquez, P.A. team is dedicated to protecting the rights of injured victims across Broward County. If you or a loved one sustains an injury this season, call (954) 833-1440 or fill out this short form to schedule a consultation.