Do Car Accidents Increase During the Holidays?

The holiday season is upon us, and it is one of the busiest travel times of the year. As we get ready to welcome family and friends into our homes, attend holiday parties, and deal with the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping, it makes sense that we all spend a lot more time out on the road. With so much going on, the obvious question remains: do car accidents increase during the holidays?

What Does the Research Say?

It may seem obvious that accidents increase when more people are on the road, rushing here and there during the holidays but what does the research say? According to a 2013 study conducted by the University of Alabama Center for Advanced Public Safety, it was found that accidents do in fact spike during the days leading up to Christmas. But why?

What Causes So Many Holiday Car Accidents?

The study indicated that traffic is much heavier during the month of December, reaching its peak during the week leading up to Christmas Day. During that time, the researchers found that there were nearly 20 percent more car accidents when compared to the days leading up to other holidays such as Thanksgiving and New Year's Day. However, the researchers also noted that actual accidents on New Year's Eve were the highest for a single day.

The holiday season is busy for most of us – from buying last minute gifts to preparing for holiday house guests. The rushed atmosphere of the holidays can cause people to become more impatient and this inevitably leads to carelessness on the road. If you factor in the increase in social gatherings during the holidays, the likelihood of impaired drivers on the road also rises. For those traveling by car for the holidays, distractions like cell phones, GPS, and restless children can also contribute to auto accidents.

What to Do if You Get in an Accident During the Holidays

Undoubtedly, a car accident can put a damper on your holiday celebrations. If you or a loved one sustain serious injuries following an auto accident, it’s important to seek help from a qualified legal team with extensive trial experience. The attorneys at Kwartler Manus, LLC work hard to make sure you and your loved ones are fairly treated and compensated after a catastrophic auto accident. Our Philadelphia personal injury attorneys will be able to answer your questions, determine who is at fault, guide you through the legal process, and go the extra mile for you and your loved ones.

The Philadelphia personal injury attorneys of Kwartler Manus, LLC are always ready to assist you by sorting out the facts of the accident, determining the extent of your injuries, and navigating a complicated legal system to secure the compensation that you and your family deserve. For 24/7 access to legal advice, a free consultation, and answers to frequently asked questions, visit us at www.kminjurylawyers.com.