Holiday Danger on Western New York Roads: Impaired Driving and Personal Injury Risks

For many, the holidays are a time of joy, celebration, and time spent with family and friends. Unfortunately, they are also a time of heightened danger on the road. Whether you are staying home or traveling to visit family and friends, recognizing the risks of holiday travel and understanding the factors that increase the number of collisions on highways in Western New York can help you protect yourself and your loved ones.

Holiday Accident Statistics

Running from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, the holiday season is a time of celebration that encompasses several different holidays. However, the number and frequency of family and social gatherings that require holiday travel increase the risk of being involved in a serious accident.

According to a five-year national study, almost 14% more fatal accidents occur on holidays than on non-holidays. Alcohol consumption, speeding, distracted driving, and holiday traffic are all contributing factors.

Why Are Car Accidents More Likely During the Holidays?

Consider some of the factors that make holiday travel more dangerous than driving on non-holidays.

• Holiday drivers increase traffic volume. Millions of people travel during the holidays, going to parties, picking up gifts, and spending time with loved ones. Some will drive hundreds of miles, while others will drive to the airport to board a plane or pick up relatives who flew in from out of state. Regardless of distance, the holidays mean more people on the road, which leads to greater traffic congestion and an increased likelihood of being involved in a car accident.
• Driving while impaired. Consuming alcohol or recreational drugs at office parties, while catching up with friends, or during celebrations with family can lead to poor decisions about whether to get behind the wheel.
• Speeding. Between shopping trips, work obligations, family gatherings, school events, and social engagements, some drivers speed to try to make up time. Excessive speed is a factor in many holiday accidents.
• Distracted and drowsy driving. Distracted driving and fatigued driving remain substantial risks, especially for people driving in unfamiliar areas or travelling long distances.
• Poor weather conditions. The combination of snow, ice, and holiday traffic increases the risk of being involved in a car crash.

How to Stay Safe During Holiday Travel

Fortunately, many of the causes of holiday accidents are within our control.

Prepare Your Car for Winter Driving

Winters in Western New York can be severe, and often include lake-effect snow, temperatures well below freezing, and high winds. Protect yourself and others by having your vehicle serviced before winter weather hits. Check your tire pressure, oil, and brakes. If snow or ice accumulates on your vehicle, remove it before you hit the road.

Eliminate Distractions

Distracted driving is a common factor in holiday crashes. Eliminate distractions by setting your travel route before you leave. Let passengers take calls, handle the playlist, and help out with navigation. Optimize your driving environment so fewer items compete for your attention and you can focus on driving.

Don’t Drive While Drowsy or Impaired

Driving while impaired and driving while fatigued reduce reaction time and increase the risk of being involved in a serious car accident. If you’re tired, take a walk, drink some water, or even take a short nap before heading out. If you consumed alcohol or are otherwise impaired, make arrangements to avoid driving or use a rideshare app.

Avoid the Holiday Rush

Holiday traffic creates congested roads. Try to plan your travel to leave early in the morning, or time your driving to avoid the busiest travel days and times. Avoiding the holiday rush means less traffic, less stress, and a safer trip for everyone.

Happy Holidays from Looney Injury Law

Staying safe during the holidays does not mean you need to avoid travelling. You can reduce your chances of being injured in a car accident by making smart choices about where, when, and how you travel. Avoid the most dangerous times, drive during times when visibility is the best, and give yourself extra time to account for bad weather or heavier-than-normal holiday traffic.

Injured in a Holiday Car Accident? Looney Injury Law Can Help.

If you or someone you love was injured in a holiday car accident, Looney Injury Law can help. Call us at (716) 300-7777 or contact our law firm today to schedule a free, confidential, no-obligation appointment to discuss your situation and how we can assist you.