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The holiday season is the busiest time of the year and can be pretty overwhelming. People travel to spend quality time with their loved ones and rush to the shopping malls to look for the perfect gifts. Naturally, the number of vehicles we suddenly see on the road increases as we get closer to Christmas and the New Year. Sadly, crowded highways, especially during winter weather, cause driving-related accidents. It’s easy to forget about the increased risk of personal injury during this festive season. Still, it’s crucial to prioritize holiday driving safety, whether you’re heading home for the holidays or on your way to the mall.
With a higher possibility of road accidents, how do you stay safe on the road during the holidays? Thankfully, there are several things you can do to help make your holiday season driving safer. Before getting behind the wheel, take note of this holiday driving safety guide to guarantee a happy and safe festive season.
Nevertheless, if you were involved in a car accident and are now suffering from injuries, our team at Arash Law, the top-rated California personal injury law firm, can help. Call (888) 488-1391 to connect with our award-winning car accident lawyers, known for their expertise in handling complicated cases and advocating for just settlements for victims.
Best Holiday Driving Safety Tips
During the holiday season, many individuals travel to see their loved ones. Some people even spend long hours driving to be with their family on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Unfortunately, the Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve holidays are some of the most dangerous times to travel, and understandably so. Winter storms can create difficult driving conditions during these holidays, just like drivers who may have had too many spiked eggnogs at the office party.
Following the holiday safe driving tips below can help make you safer this winter:
Preparing Your Vehicle
Off to a long road trip this holiday season? Then, it’s highly recommended that you prepare your vehicle first. Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and in good condition for driving, especially during winter travel. A quick checkup at your service center or dealer can make a big difference in ensuring a smooth journey with your family. Take the time to replace and repair anything necessary before your long road trip. Don’t forget to check the tires, lights, and all fluids before any trip.
Planning Your Route
Plan your route whenever possible. Be mindful of the expected weather, road conditions, and traffic. Allow plenty of time to reach your destination safely. Before you go, familiarize yourself with maps and directions, even if you rely on a GPS. Also, inform others of your route and estimated arrival time.
Packing Essentials
Even if your vehicle is in good condition, it can break down unexpectedly. So, having an emergency roadside kit with you is practical. Here are some essential and handy survival kit items you can bring:
- Cell phone and charger
- Battery or solar-powered phone chargers
- Emergency medical kit
- Warning devices, such as triangle reflectors, flares, and a white flag
- Flashlight with fresh batteries
- Jumper cables
- Car jack (and ground mat) for changing a tire
- Tire pressure gauge
- Work gloves and spare clothes
- Essential tools and duct tape (for temporary hose leak repair)
- Drinking water
- Nonperishable food
- Medication
- Extra windshield washer fluid
- Maps
- Emergency blankets, towels, and coats
- Toilet paper, paper towels, or rags
- Sand, cat litter, or traction mats for slippery, oily, or snowy road conditions
- Small shovel
- Essential hand tools, including a screwdriver, hammer, etc.
Driving Safely In Winter Conditions
Driving on jam-packed highways on regular days is dangerous. Even more so when the road’s all covered in snow. Indeed, the high traffic volume and snowy weather can pose risks to travelers.
To avoid any potential car accidents, take note of these useful safe driving tips while dashing through snowy roads:
Don’t drink and drive. Perhaps one of the most typical safe driving tips for winter you’ve heard too many times is never to drink and drive. During the holiday season, car accidents are common due to bad weather and drunk drivers. To ensure your safety, avoid drinking and driving. If you’ve had a drink or two at a party, consider alternative transportation options, such as calling a taxi or a friend or spending the night. The police are always on high alert during this time, so it’s best to be responsible and make the right choices. Better yet, schedule a rideshare service such as Uber or Lyft in advance if you plan to drink at holiday gatherings.
Get winter tires. Good traction is crucial for driving safely on wet, slushy, or icy roads. Check your tires and tire pressure regularly, especially during colder months when air pressure can decrease. Winter tires are specifically designed to provide extra traction in these conditions.
Top-up windshield fluid. Ensure you have enough winter washer fluid, and replace the wiper blades that leave streaks. Check that the reservoir is filled with windshield washer fluid rated for temperatures as low as -40°F. Keeping an extra jug in your vehicle is also a great idea.
Prepare for longer trips. Ensure your cell phone is fully charged or that you have a car charger. Remember to pack food, non-alcoholic beverages, blankets, pillows for the passengers, and any necessary medication for yourself and your fellow travelers. If you’re traveling with kids, don’t forget to bring suitable games for their age.
Drive cautiously. Driving can be risky when there is fog, black ice, slush, or snow on the roads. So, drive slowly and maintain a safe distance between vehicles.
Always have a full gas tank. When driving in unfavorable weather conditions, be cautious, prepare in advance, and ensure you have sufficient fuel. Keep the fuel tank filled to at least half capacity.
Fasten your seatbelt before driving. Make sure that you and your passengers are secure while driving, especially during December, when the weather can be unpredictable. Even a short trip to the nearby store can be dangerous if you encounter black ice. Taking a few seconds to buckle up can save your life.
Almost half of the people involved in accidents don’t wear their seatbelts. Based on the Centers for Disease Control’s report, using a seatbelt can significantly lower the risk of serious injury by 50% and the likelihood of death by 45%.
Lock your vehicle at all times. Keep your cars locked while traveling, when you stop, and after reaching your destination. Never give strangers access to your car.
Take regular breaks during your travels. Try to stop every two to three hours. Remember, fatigued driving is among the leading causes of vehicle accidents. Take a moment to step out of the car and stretch your legs. These breaks will keep you more awake and reduce stress. If possible, take turns driving with other licensed passengers.
Stick to the main roads and highways. They might be busier and more crowded, but they are also well-lit, well-maintained, and have more law enforcement and public safety personnel. Avoid unnecessary risks that could lead to getting lost or stranded, especially when traveling alone or with children.
Avoid driving at night. Try to arrive at your destination before sunset, even if it requires waking up at 4 AM. Research indicates that driving at night is riskier, as you may not notice motorcyclists or come across intoxicated drivers.
Clear your car of snow and debris before heading out. Take a walk around your vehicle to ensure it’s ready for driving. Remove all snow and ice from every window to have a clear view. Don’t be the person who only cleans off the driver’s side of the windshield. Also, clear off the roof and trunk to prevent snow from obstructing your rearview window.
Here are some more safe driving tips for the holiday season that you should keep in mind.
- Start slowly using the lowest gear recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
- Turn on your headlights.
- Avoid using cruise control or overdrive.
- Maintain a safe following distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles.
- Brake gently and start braking early as you approach intersections.
- Be on the lookout for abandoned or stalled cars on and beside the road.
- Watch out for slippery areas, especially under bridges, overpasses, and shaded spots.
- Give yourself extra travel time.
- Stick to the right-hand lane unless you’re passing.
- Steer smoothly and precisely to prevent skidding.
- If you start sliding, ease off the gas pedal or brakes. Turn into the skid until you regain traction, then straighten your vehicle.
- Keep a safe distance from snowplows, and only pass if necessary.
Avoiding Distractions
In winter, the roads can be dangerous. Even the slightest distraction can lead to car accidents. Stay focused on driving and remain alert.
Using a cell phone while driving is illegal, so keep it out of sight. Inform your loved ones and colleagues that you won’t be able to respond to calls or texts until you reach your destination. If you need to call, find a safe spot to pull over and check your messages.
Staying Alert
Stay alert to your surroundings. Be vigilant for anything that might impact your driving. If you hear sirens or see emergency lights, pull over to the side of the road and let the fire truck, ambulance, or police car pass by.
Also, keep an eye on the road ahead in case of a crash. If you spot anything, reduce your speed, as you never know the cause of the initial accident and wouldn’t want to contribute to it. When you pass by, maintain a significant distance to avoid any extra dangers.
Additionally, be cautious of other drivers. As you may already know, not all drivers are skilled, and you may have witnessed some taking risky actions on the road. When combined with unfavorable weather conditions, they can pose a threat to themselves and you. Therefore, it’s best to stay alert while driving, as other drivers may overtake you at high speeds, encounter icy patches, make sudden maneuvers, or have excessive confidence in their driving abilities or their vehicle’s capability to handle the weather.
If the road conditions are dangerous, try to avoid driving as much as possible. Wait until the road and weather conditions improve before leaving your vehicle.
Dealing With Emergency Situations
Per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), here’s what you can do if you find yourself stranded in snowy weather:
- Try not to overexert yourself and remain seated in your car.
- Mark the antenna or windows with bright markers, and turn on the dome light.
- Don’t run your car for long periods with the windows up or in an enclosed space to avoid asphyxiation from carbon monoxide poisoning. Use your car only when required to keep warm, open a window slightly, and make sure to clear the exhaust pipe of any snow.
Keeping Children And Pets Safe During Holiday Travel
When going on holiday road trips, the safety and well-being of your children and pets should also be at the top of your priority list.
Ensure your kids are safely fastened in car seats suitable for their age, height, and weight. Follow the instructions given by the manufacturer, and use seat belts and restraints correctly.
Children should always be accompanied when going to or leaving the car. Never leave them unattended. Teach children about their complete name, address, and telephone number so they can provide it to police officers or mall security if needed. Additionally, teach children to inform you immediately if they feel uncomfortable or threatened by a stranger.
Meanwhile, use carriers, crates, or pet seat belts to restrain your furry friends in the vehicle. This helps prevent them from moving around freely and causing distractions. It also ensures the safety of your pets and other people in case of sudden stops or accidents.
Holiday Safety Tips For Pedestrians
As the holidays get closer, people will be out and about, enjoying festive activities or shopping for Christmas. Knowing how to avoid danger as a pedestrian during this busy time is essential.
If you’re wondering how to stay safe on the road as a pedestrian during the holiday season, here’s how:
- Follow the laws and avoid walking on highways or restricted zones. Use sidewalks whenever possible, and only cross roads at designated crossings.
- When there are no sidewalks, walk on the side of the road facing the traffic. Additionally, try to stay on the shoulder of the road as much as possible.
- Wear bright-colored clothes so drivers can easily see you. On the other hand, wear clothes that reflect light and carry a flashlight when you walk at night.
- Always be mindful of your surroundings and the drivers nearby. Sometimes, drivers can be distracted, so it’s essential to stay alert. To check if they notice you, make eye contact with them.
- Remember, alcohol and drugs can affect your walking, decision-making, and driving skills.
Holiday Drinking And Driving Safety Tips
During the holiday season, many people enjoy alcoholic beverages like eggnog and champagne. However, this festive drinking also leads to more DUI car accidents.
In 2020, the NHTSA reported 209 deaths caused by drunk driving during the period from Christmas Eve to New Year’s Day. These tragic incidents could have been avoided. To guarantee that you and your loved ones stay safe from alcohol-related car accidents during the holidays, here are some helpful tips for both hosts and attendees of parties.
Holiday Drinking And Safety Tips For Hosts
If you’re organizing a holiday party, include safe transportation options in your planning. While great food, drinks, decorations, and music can make for a memorable event, a responsible host will ensure their guests can return home safely and talk about the party for years.
To ensure your guests don’t get involved in a DUI accident, here’s what you should do:
- Gather car keys from your guests upon their arrival.
- Provide plenty of water and non-alcoholic drinks to prevent guests from excessively drinking.
- Arrange for a family member or friend to drive guests home.
- Consider renting a “party van” with a driver or a rideshare service to ensure safe transportation.
- Prepare your guest room or sofa for guests who cannot drive home.
During the holidays, especially New Year’s Eve, the demand for rideshare services and taxis is very high. Although they are usually a great way to get everyone home safely after drinking, they might not be the most practical options for you and your guests. In such cases, a private solution could be the best choice.
Holiday Drinking And Driving Safety Tips For Guests
While holiday parties are a great time to cut loose and enjoy the company of your dearest friends, it’s essential to do so responsibly. If you know that you’re going to drink or that there’s a possibility you might drink, then you owe it to yourself to make sure you have a way to get home safely. Before you go out, make sure that you:
- Make sure to have someone (who is not drinking) watch over you and your group.
- Request a responsible friend or family member to be your designated driver (and show your appreciation with a lovely present!)
- Plan and arrange transportation in advance using a service like Uber or Lyft.
- If the party or venue is far from your home, consider booking a hotel room nearby for convenience.
Once again, rideshare services and taxi companies are great options for a secure ride home. However, there is usually a high demand for these services during the holidays. So, it’s better to plan and make arrangements to ensure a pleasant evening and create lasting holiday memories.
Driving Safety Tips To Protect Your Employees This Holiday
During the holiday season, workers in the retail and delivery industries experience their busiest time of the year. There’s inevitably a rise in online shopping as people scour the internet conveniently to look for the perfect gifts.
As such, many companies hire temporary drivers to cope with the increased demand for package deliveries. These drivers have to deliver many packages and may have to drive in challenging weather conditions like snow, ice, or slush. The pressure to deliver orders on time can also increase the risk of accidents. Shockingly, in 2020, more than 20% of all work-related deaths in the United States occurred while driving a motor vehicle on a public road.
Employers can ensure the safety of their delivery drivers by implementing a motor vehicle safety program. Workers who drive as part of their job may encounter road accidents, which can be caused by bad weather conditions or impaired travelers. To effectively address these concerns, the program should focus on the following areas:
Giving important information
- Keep your employees informed about the latest road construction or closure updates, hazardous road conditions, and other potential driving dangers.
- Educate your workers about the effects of prescription and over-the-counter medications on their driving abilities. Leverage your company’s health and wellness program to disseminate this crucial information to your workforce.
- Provide a refresher course on driver safety that covers defensive driving skills like following speed limits, maintaining a safe distance, staying focused on the road, and responding appropriately in bad weather conditions.
Setting policies
- Set policies that allow drivers and supervisors to decide how to improve safety while meeting the driver’s individual needs. This could involve a driver talking to supervisors about adjusting hours if the driver can’t see well at night. On the one hand, supervisors may ask drivers to stop driving if they are exhausted, or the weather is terrible.
- Establish firm guidelines that explicitly state that employees must refrain from driving while under the influence of drugs (whether they are legal or illegal substances) or alcohol that could potentially hinder their ability to drive safely.
- Set a rule prohibiting cell phones, hands-free phones, or any mobile electronic devices while operating a vehicle. To ensure everyone’s safety, drivers should pull to a secure location before using their phones or other devices.
Providing drivers with a handy emergency kit containing essential items to keep in their vehicle
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
- Flares
- Batteries
- Ice scraper
- Jumper cables
- Blanket
- Bottled water
- Non-perishable snacks
Giving workers common driving safety tips, such as the following:
- As the law requires, buckle up every time you take a trip, no matter how short it may be.
- Avoid driving when you feel fatigued. If tired, stop and take breaks before continuing the trip.
- Stay mindful of your surroundings. There’s a chance that other drivers might be under the influence, exhausted, or rushing to get to their destinations.
- For long drives, inform your supervisor of your expected arrival time and let them know when you get to your destination.
- Check weather forecasts so the driver can change routes to avoid hazardous conditions.
More Safety Tips For Responsible Holiday Celebrations
The holidays are a time to spend time with loved ones. Sadly, though, they can also pose safety risks, causing several types of personal injuries. To ensure a safe and happy holiday season, here are some helpful tips for keeping your home secure.
Holiday Decorating Tips
On average, about 160 injuries related to decorating occur every day during the holiday season, of which half are fall-related injuries. Here are some helpful tips to make your holiday decorating extra safe:
- Do not use furniture as a ladder under any circumstances.
- When using an extension ladder, adhere to the 1-to-4 rule: move the ladder’s base outward one foot for every four feet it rises.
- One foot and one hand or two hands and one foot should always be the three points of contact when using a ladder.
- Before using the ladder, inspect it for any signs of damage.
- Use the appropriate ladder for the specific task.
Electrical Safety Tips
From 2015 to 2019, Christmas trees caused an average of 160 home fires each year, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). These fires resulted in an average of two deaths, 12 injuries, and over $10 million in property damage annually.
- To prevent electrical fires, buy lights from trustworthy stores and those approved by nationally recognized testing labs such as UL, Intertek, or CSA.
- Inspect indoor and outdoor lights for damaged sockets, frayed wires, or loose connections.
- Lastly, avoid overloading outlets with too many electrical devices, which can lead to a fire.
Holiday Shopping Safety Tips
During the holiday season, it’s essential to be extra cautious while shopping. Here are a few important reminders to keep in mind:
- Take caution while reversing from parking spots. It’s advisable to have someone assist you as a lookout, particularly if you’re parked beside a large vehicle like an SUV or van. Additionally, remain vigilant for any other cars in the parking area that could unexpectedly reverse out of their spaces.
- Always watch your kids, and be aware of small children running behind your car when leaving your parking spot.
- Park only in well-lit areas.
- If it’s possible, choose to shop during daylight hours. But if you must go out at night, having a friend or family member accompany you is advisable.
- Be aware of your surroundings, even if you are in a hurry.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Don’t carry too many packages. Maintaining a clear line of sight and the ability to move freely are crucial to prevent accidents.
What Technologies, Such As Crash Cushions And Roadside Sensors, Promise To Make Highway Travel Safer
Over time, the world has become fast-paced and has embraced new technologies. These technologies, thankfully, have also made driving and roads safer by reducing accidents and enhancing transportation. Technology has consistently demonstrated its ability to address road safety concerns.
Here are some safe-driving technologies available for cars that can prevent accidents:
- Automatic Emergency Braking Systems (AEB) – consists of two technologies (Crash Imminent Braking and Crash Imminent Braking) designed for brake assistance
- Blind Spot Detection – signals the driver if any vehicles are in their blind spot
- Car Cushions – designed to minimize the impact of car accidents
- Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communication (V2V) – enables vehicles to wirelessly share data on their speed, location, and direction without wires.
- Traction Control Systems – prevents the vehicle’s wheel from spinning uncontrollably during acceleration or when the vehicle starts, especially on wet roads.
Which Holidays Have The Most Fatal Car Accidents?
As exciting as the holidays are, they can also be a risky time for driving. Driving during the holidays can be highly challenging because of heavy traffic and the presence of intoxicated drivers. So, it’s important to exercise extra caution and practice safe holiday driving on these dangerous traffic days to ensure a safe journey home.
In a perfect world, there should be no need to worry about accidents during the festivities. However, over 300 people may die on U.S. roads this Christmas Day holiday, according to the National Safety Council. Furthermore, based on a study by autoinsurance.org, here are the holidays with the highest number of deadly car accidents:
- Memorial Day came in first, with an average of 448 fatal accidents yearly.
- Labor Day and 4th of July followed close behind, with 445 and 440, respectively.
- Meanwhile, there were 419 reported fatal crashes during Cinco de Mayo.
- Although Mother’s Day may appear harmless, the number of traffic fatalities suggests otherwise. An average of 402 deadly crashes occur on this day.
- There’s an average of 396 deadly car accidents during Halloween.
- Thanksgiving is also among the deadliest holidays to drive, with a 391 average fatality rate.
Most Common Holiday Injuries And How To Avoid Them
Holidays bring about cherished memories but pose numerous dangers for adults and children. Being mindful of the potential risks and understanding safe protocols can help avoid visiting the hospital and prevent serious or even fatal injuries.
Here are the most common injuries during the holiday season, plus tips on how to avoid them:
Car Accidents
Many people go on road trips during holidays. Spending a lot of time driving can increase the risk of traffic accidents. Sadly, holidays also lead to people driving under the influence of alcohol.
Prioritize your safety by:
- Arriving on time by planning ahead
- Staying safe by avoiding driving at night
- Ensuring your vehicle is in good condition before traveling
- Protecting your children by using proper car seats
- Buckling up for safety while driving
Burns
Candles, fireplaces, and faulty electrical wires on holiday lights are all potential sources of burns. In the kitchen, accidents with hot oil, boiling water, and stove burners can also lead to serious burn injuries. The risks are even higher when inexperienced cooks or unsupervised children are in a crowded kitchen.
Here are some common holiday safety tips to avoid burn injuries:
- Don’t put actual candles on Christmas trees.
- Don’t forget to put out all the candles and fires before sleeping.
- Avoid placing candles in areas where people may put their hands.
- Dispose of any broken holiday lights.
- Do not overload electrical circuits.
- Keep young children away from potential kitchen dangers.
- Warn guests about hot pans and fryers.
- Always follow the instructions for cooking appliances, including fryers.
Slip And Falls
People falling from ladders while holiday decorating is common during festive seasons. Use a ladder long enough for the job to prevent such incidents, and never stand on the top rung. Always ensure the ladder is stable and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use. Uneven or icy sidewalks, stairs without handrails, and poor lighting in any location can also lead to a dangerous fall.
Visiting unfamiliar or poorly maintained places during the holidays can also put you at risk. Busy stores might not have enough staff to clean wet floors, causing your slip.
Injured in a slip-and-fall accident? Arash Law’s slip-and-fall attorneys could advise you about your legal rights after a slip-and-fall injury.
Learn more about the most common causes of slip-and-fall accidents.
Food Poisoning
Many people attempt to cook lavish holiday dinners without proper food safety knowledge. As a result, food poisoning is always miserable and occasionally fatal.
Here’s how to avoid food poisoning:
- Remember to wash your hands properly.
- Avoid cooking with spoiled food.
- Make sure to cook all meats to the recommended temperatures.
- Clean all surfaces that come into contact with raw meat.
- Don’t prepare food on surfaces that have touched raw meat.
- Thoroughly wash all produce before consuming.
- Keep raw meat separate from fresh produce or cooked foods.
- Remember to refrigerate leftovers within two hours.
Alcohol Poisoning in Teenagers
During a festive occasion when adults enjoy alcoholic beverages, children may be tempted to try these drinks unnoticed. However, consuming excessive amounts of alcohol can pose serious health risks for young kids and teenagers. To ensure their safety, closely supervise them, secure alcohol supplies, and dispose of unattended, half-empty drinks.
Plant Poisoning
Mistletoe, Holly, and poinsettias are all not safe to eat. Curious young children, however, can accidentally poison themselves by eating the leaves of these plants. To prevent this, keep these plants out of their reach or use artificial decorations instead.
Severe Cuts
You will probably get many deliveries during the holiday and need to open big boxes. Keep your hand away from the blades and cut in the opposite direction of your body.
Many injuries occur due to the tough plastic clamshells that encase various products. People often struggle to open them using scissors or knives, leading to accidental cuts. Be patient when dealing with such packaging, and understand that opening may be challenging.
Choking
Babies and young children often put objects in their mouths. During the holidays, limit their access to small items such as tiny light bulbs, ornaments, and ornament hooks. Be cautious with finger foods like grapes, peanuts, and cocktail sausages, as they can be dangerous for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. When buying gifts, check for choking hazards and avoid products with small parts and magnets.
Back Injuries
There are often many deliveries during the holiday season, and some packages can be pretty large. Lift them safely, or better yet, seek assistance when dealing with heavy objects to prevent straining your back or injuring yourself. If you’re in a snowy location, be cautious of back injuries while shoveling snow. The task involves lifting and twisting, which can put your back at risk.
Serious Allergic Reactions
Unfamiliar food at a holiday buffet could expose you unexpectedly to a dish you typically avoid. Fresh Christmas trees can also trigger severe allergies from mold spores or pollen. If you’re sensitive to these allergens, rinse your tree with a hose outside and let it dry before bringing it indoors.
Why Do Car Accidents Increase During The Holidays?
The rise in holiday car accidents can be attributed to various circumstances. To minimize the risk, we, as responsible drivers, must be aware of these factors and take necessary precautions.
Here are some of the most common causes of holiday car accidents:
- Increased Traffic
The holiday season is often associated with longer travel durations and a higher likelihood of car accidents. This is not only due to people traveling to visit loved ones but also because more individuals are shopping for presents and completing errands for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s celebrations.
- Road Rage
The roads get busier, even during non-peak hours, causing delays for people attending work, appointments, and parties. Impatient and annoyed drivers are prone to making more errors like speeding, following too closely, ignoring traffic signals, and displaying road rage, along with other reckless actions.
- Increased Drunk Driving
During the vacation and holiday seasons, there is consequently an increase in driving under the influence. People gather and have a good time with their loved ones, often enjoying beer or wine to celebrate. However, it’s unfortunate that many individuals mistakenly believe that having one or two drinks makes them fit to drive, which is untrue.
Even though we’re aware of the dangers of drinking and driving, thinking that “I only had a few” can lead to a car crash. It’s important to remember that it’s illegal not only to drive while drunk but also to drive while slightly intoxicated. Even a small amount of alcohol in your system can affect your vision, make you drowsy, or slow down your reaction time. All of which can increase the risk of a car accident during the holidays.
- Stressed, Distracted Driving
Stress and tiredness can affect a person in more ways than they think. Some individuals may not even realize they are stressed. Even during holidays, stress doesn’t always go away. This may result in a higher rate of crashes during the holidays because stressed drivers tend to sleep less and feel mentally drained.
Exhaustion and fatigue, like alcohol, can also affect drivers. It can impair their vision, cause them to fall asleep while driving, and make them easily distracted, which ultimately leads to frustration and impatience. Imagine having a long list of tasks to complete within a limited time frame. Traveling to purchase gifts, decorations, food, and other holiday essentials can be incredibly stressful. This heightened stress and fatigue can result in careless driving and increased car accidents.
- Failure To Maintain Vehicles
Drivers may prioritize holiday purchases over routine car maintenance. However, this can be risky, especially regarding essential upkeep like checking brakes and tires. Neglecting these maintenance tasks can lead to dangerous situations, such as tire blowouts on the highway or difficulty stopping due to faulty brakes. Prioritizing proper car maintenance throughout the year is crucial for your and other drivers’ safety.
- Dangerous Driving Conditions
The winter season is considered one of the most dangerous times to drive on the roads. The holidays bring about many events and gatherings that prompt people to travel in hazardous conditions, such as snow, ice, and sleet. These conditions make driving extremely dangerous due to low visibility and untreated asphalt that accumulates ice. Even the slightest distraction could lead to a holiday car accident, multi-car collision, or fender-bender. It’s safer to stay home until the weather conditions improve rather than risk your safety by traveling during a storm.
Why Do Texting And Driving Accidents Increase During The Holidays?
There is limited research on the reasons behind the rise in texting and driving during the holiday season. Still, there are various factors that could contribute to this increase. Some individuals may want to inform their loved ones about their arrival or delays. Others may feel bored during longer drives and succumb to the urge to check their phones. Additionally, some drivers may have developed an addiction to constantly looking at their phones, making it difficult for them to resist the temptation while driving.
The rate of texting and driving stays constant, but the risk increases due to more cars on the road, people rushing during this time of year, and dangerous road conditions caused by dropping temperatures.
According to data from the NHTSA, more than 3,000 individuals lost their lives in car accidents caused by distracted drivers in 2021. Texting is considered the most dangerous distraction, as it diverts your attention from the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, it’s equivalent to driving the length of a football field with your eyes shut.
Texting while driving is extremely risky, as it requires the driver to pay attention visually, manually, and cognitively to the task. The more attention given to the phone, the less mental capacity the driver has for driving.
What To Do If You Are Involved In A Car Accident During The Holidays
As preparation for the worst during the holidays, you should know what to do after a car accident. Follow these steps to guarantee the best resolution:
- Ensure everyone involved in the incident is fine, including passengers in your vehicle and the other parties. If anyone is injured, seek medical assistance right away.
- Call the authorities. They will complete an accident report, which you must present to your insurance company to claim compensation for the damages.
- Record all the damage to your car.
- Exchange insurance information with the other parties. Take down their names, insurance providers, policy numbers, and contact information.
- Get in touch with a personal injury lawyer to learn more about the process of getting financial compensation for your injuries.
If you get injured in a California car accident during the holiday season, you can seek compensation for your injury-related expenses. Look for an experienced injury lawyer as soon as possible. In California, you have a time limit of two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim. There are certain exceptions, but generally, once those two years pass, you will no longer be eligible to pursue financial compensation.
Proving Liability In Holiday Road Accidents
After a road accident, it’s crucial to establish who is responsible. If you sustained injuries during the holiday season while traveling, a personal injury attorney could assist you in proving liability. They’ll gather evidence to prove the following:
- The liable party had a duty of care to everyone on the road.
- They didn’t fulfill their duty of care.
- Their failure caused the car accident and your injuries.
- You experienced damages due to their negligence.
If you believe someone else’s negligent behavior caused your injuries and losses in an accident during the holiday season, Arash Law’s outstanding car accident attorneys can help you build a solid case. Contact us immediately—the initial consultation is free!
What If I’m Hit By A Drunk Driver?
No matter how cautious you are on the road, unfortunately, there’s a chance that you may still get involved in an accident. In such situations, it’s crucial to know the necessary steps to take after being hit by a drunk driver. If you have a designated driver or a sober person with you, ensure that they are aware of the critical actions to follow in case of a DUI accident.
If you’re the victim of a DUI incident, know that Arash Law’s award-winning injury attorneys in California are here to support you 24/7, even during the holidays. We’re keen on making the negligent parties liable for their reckless behaviors.
Injured In A Holiday Car Accident? Let Arash Law’s Skilled California Injury Lawyers Help You!
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident during the holidays, don’t hesitate to call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391. Under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., our accident attorneys will go the extra mile to help you. We’ll hold the negligent party liable and get you the maximum damages to help you recover physically, mentally, and financially.
Please call us at (888) 488-1391 to discuss your case, or you can fill out our free consultation form.
