What are the common traffic dangers during the holiday season?

As you know, you can be in an accident whenever you get into a vehicle. However, some times of the year are more dangerous than others. You and other Kentucky residents should understand that many traffic dangers are increased during the holiday season.

Christmas and New Year’s Day are two of the most dangerous days of the year for traffic accidents, according to the American Safety Council. When holiday shoppers and festivities abound during this season, drivers are likely to be stressed out, fatigued, distracted and even intoxicated. You might be in an accident in one of the following ways:

  • Struck by a drunk driver coming home from an office Christmas party or ringing in the new year
  • Targeted by an angry driver in a case of road rage
  • In a collision with a vehicle whose driver fell asleep at the wheel
  • In an accident caused by someone who was texting while driving

You should also consider the possibility of adverse weather conditions exacerbating this already hazardous time of year. Rain, sleet, snow and icy roads are dangerous enough on their own, but can be especially deadly when combined with exhausted, impatient, distracted and drunk drivers. You might reduce your chances of being in an accident by being aware of the numerous risks, but it’s difficult or impossible to predict other drivers’ actions and prevent all crashes. Therefore, you may need to seek experienced counsel if you are injured by a negligent driver, which is why this information should not replace the advice of a lawyer.