The Heightened Risk of Car Accidents During The Holidays

As the holiday season brings festive cheer to Virginia, it also ushers in unique challenges for the residents on the roads. The combination of increased travel, winter weather conditions, and holiday festivities contributes to an increased risk of car accidents. If you or someone you love was injured in a car accident because of the negligent actions of another driver, an experienced car accident attorney can establish liability and help you obtain the largest possible compensation for your injuries and losses.

Holidays Bring an Increased Risk of Auto Accidents in Virginia 

Increased Traffic Volume

The holidays witness a surge in travel as families and friends come together to celebrate. The roads experience an uptick in traffic from local gatherings and interstate travel. The higher volume of vehicles on the road increases the likelihood of accidents.

Winter Weather Challenges

Virginia’s winters can bring various weather conditions, including rain, sleet, and snow. These weather challenges create slippery road surfaces and reduced visibility, amplifying the risk of accidents. Drivers need to exercise caution and adapt their driving behavior to changing weather patterns.

Holiday Festivities and Events

From Richmond to Arlington, holiday events and festivities draw people from across the state. The added events contribute to congestion and potentially distracted driving. You should consider being vigilant around event venues and practice defensive driving to mitigate the risk.

Impaired Driving Incidents

The holiday season often sees an increase in social gatherings and celebrations. Unfortunately, this can also result in an increase in alcohol consumption. Impaired driving poses a significant risk during this time, emphasizing the importance of designated drivers and alternative transportation options.

Fatigue and Long Journeys

Holiday travel often involves long journeys, leading to driver fatigue. Fatigue can impair reaction times and decision-making, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Planning for breaks and sharing driving responsibilities can help mitigate this risk.

Urban Congestion

Virginia’s urban areas, including Norfolk and Virginia Beach, experience heightened congestion during the holidays. Urban traffic can be challenging to handle on the streets, with increased risks of fender-benders and more severe collisions. You may want to exercise patience and remain alert in these areas.

Tips to Keep Your Family Safe

Car travel holds the highest rate of fatal injury among major transportation modes, as reported by the National Safety Council (NSC). According to NSC estimates, approximately 340 lives may be lost in traffic accidents on US roads during the 2021 Christmas holiday period. Furthermore, the council projects that around 384 people could face the same fate during the upcoming New Year’s holiday.

These sobering statistics underscore the important need for heightened awareness, responsible driving, and safety precautions during the holiday season to mitigate the risks associated with increased road travel. These are a few tips that can help you keep your friends and family safe:

• Always use seat belts in the car, regardless of the distance.
• Secure children in appropriate car seats or booster seats based on their age, height, and weight.
• Avoid distractions while driving, such as texting or talking on the phone.
• Obey speed limits and traffic rules to reduce the risk of accidents.
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Ensure that your vehicle undergoes regular maintenance, including brake checks and tire inspections.
• Be cautious in adverse weather conditions, adjusting your driving speed accordingly.

What to Do After a Holiday Car Accident?

As per the AAA, approximately 53.4 million Americans took the roads to celebrate the holidays with their loved ones in 2022. Among them, a substantial 48.3 million chose car travel as their primary mode of transportation. Despite the notable shift towards online shopping during the holidays, including Black Friday, a significant number of individuals express a preference for in-person shopping, driving to physical stores.

You need to remain vigilant on the streets while driving. And, if you do meet with an accident because of the reckless actions of another, you should consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to file a claim.

After a holiday car accident, you need to ensure you are safe and take the necessary immediate steps. You need to make sure that others are out of harm’s way as well by moving to a safe location. Don’t forget to check for injuries, and call 911 if needed. You should also exchange information with the other parties involved, including names, addresses, and insurance details. 

You may want to document the scene with photos, capturing vehicle damage and relevant conditions. You should collect witness information, but refrain from admitting fault. Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the accident report. You may consider notifying your insurance company promptly and providing accurate details without admitting fault. 

Don’t ignore obtaining medical attention for your injuries, even seemingly minor ones. Try to preserve evidence related to the accident, and stay calm and collected while interacting with others. You should consult with a personal injury attorney for guidance, especially if the accident resulted in serious injury and property damage. Follow up with insurance claims, attend medical treatments, and be aware of your rights in the aftermath. 

Our Car Accident Attorneys Can Take on Large Insurance Companies. Get Strong Legal Representation to Fight for Your Rights.

If you or someone you love was injured in a traffic accident, it is time to consult with the experienced car accident attorneys at the Pack Law Group. Our attorneys have successfully represented numerous injured victims in car accident cases, obtaining maximum compensation on their behalf from the liable parties. We will leave no stone unturned in gathering evidence, consulting experts, and building a compelling case on your behalf. To schedule your free and confidential consultation, call us at 540-586-7225 or fill out this online contact form.