The fact that car accident injuries and deaths tend to spike around the holidays does not surprise most Americans. If you have ever had to drive more than a few miles to a relative’s house for Thanksgiving or Christmas, you probably got stuck in holiday traffic.
More congestion can definitely lead to more collisions, but bumper-to-bumper traffic is not the only reason the roads are more dangerous between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. Other common holiday hazards include:
- Impaired motorists;
- Drowsy drivers;
- Poor weather; and
- Roadside distractions.
According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, more than 90 percent of holiday travelers use a personal vehicle to get from point A to point B. Thus, if all motorists exercised caution and made it a point to avoid the hazards listed above, nearly everyone would reach their Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s destination unscathed.
Unfortunately, not all drivers will travel with safety in mind this holiday season. As a result, even some of the most conscientious motorists will find themselves in a devastating collision. If you were hurt by a drunk, distracted, or negligent driver in South Carolina, contact Churdar Law Firm to discuss your case.
Doug Churdar may be able to help you fight for the maximum settlement, and if your case goes to trial, he has the litigation experience to represent your interests in court. Call 864-233-0203 to schedule a case evaluation with a personal injury attorney in Greenville.
Read on to learn about some of the most common road hazards that arise around the holidays:
- Impaired Motorists
There is nothing wrong with enjoying a few cocktails to celebrate Christmas or ring in the New Year; however, not everyone does so responsibly. Drunk driving is common around the holidays, and it often has devastating consequences. If you are going to drink this holiday season, make sure you always have a plan in place to ensure you and your loved ones get home safely.
- Drowsy Drivers
According to Forbes, the average distance for Christmas and New Year’s road trips is 275 miles. If motorists were able to travel 60 miles per hour for the entire duration of such a trip—which is highly unlikely—it would still take them more than four and a half hours to reach their destination.
Long trips are tiresome, and drowsy driving is common around the holidays. Try to strategize your trip so you only have to drive during normal waking hours to reduce the risk of causing a drowsy driving collision.
- Poor Weather
The weather in South Carolina may be fairly moderate, but head 275 miles north, and you may run in to less favorable road conditions. Beware of severe weather around the holidays, and always adjust your speed accordingly.
- Roadside Distractions
Holiday lights, broken down vehicles, and motor vehicle collisions are all common driving distractions for Christmas travelers. Beware of such distractions, and keep your eyes on the road at all times.
Sadly, even the most experienced motorists who try to avoid potential hazards can end up in a collision with a reckless driver. If you were hurt in an accident that was not your fault, contact Upstate Lawyer.
Mr. Churdar can help you avoid costly mistakes like overlooking certain damages or accepting a settlement too early in the proceedings. Call 864-233-0203 to schedule a consultation with a personal injury lawyer in Greenville. If you want to learn more about car accident claims in South Carolina, visit the USAttorneys website.