The Holiday Season Brings Heightened Risk of Car Accidents

The winter holidays are a time of celebration and of joyous reunions with family and friends. But unfortunately, the season also sees an annual uptick in car accidents. As families gather and individuals embark on holiday travels, the roads become busier and other factors contribute to an increased risk of collisions. Understanding the risks and the causes of accidents is important to prevention as well as to pursuing your legal options if you are injured.

The following are the most common factors contributing to a surge in car accidents during the winter holidays:

1. Adverse weather conditions — The winter season ushers in harsh and often unpredictable weather. Snow, ice, sleet and freezing rain create hazardous road conditions, making it challenging for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles. Reduced visibility and slippery roads contribute to a higher likelihood of accidents.
2. Heavy traffic — Starting with Thanksgiving and Black Friday, the winter holidays see high traffic volume as people travel to shop and to visit friends and family. This translates into more congestion on the roads, often for longer travel distances, which creates an environment where accidents are more likely to occur.
3. Impaired driving — Celebrations during the holidays often involve consumption of alcohol. Unfortunately, some individuals choose to get behind the wheel after drinking. Excessive alcohol use impairs drivers’ judgment and reaction times, posing a severe threat to road safety.
4. Speeding and reckless driving — Last-minute shopping, travel arrangements and other obligations add to the pressures of the season. Drivers who are behind schedule may speed or engage in reckless behavior, heightening the risk of accidents.
5. Distracted driving — A combination of cell phone use, holiday stress and end-of-year burnout creates a dangerous mix. As people multitask to manage holiday plans, fatigue and stress can compromise their focus and alertness behind the wheel.
6. Nighttime driving — With shorter days during the winter months, more driving occurs in low-light or dark conditions. Reduced visibility puts additional stress on drivers, increasing the risk of accidents.
7. Inadequate vehicle maintenance — As temperatures drop and adverse weather conditions take hold, there is a greater chance or inadequately maintained vehicles experiencing breakdowns or failures. Worn and decayed tires pose particular dangers on wet and icy roads.

If you’ve been seriously injured in a New Jersey car crash, choose an auto accident attorney who is capable of delivering positive results. You may be entitled to recover compensation for medical and rehabilitation expenses, vehicle repair or replacement, lost income due to inability to work and damages for pain and suffering and emotional distress.

Kevin T. Kutyla, Esq. in Succasunna provides experienced legal representation for victims of auto accidents in Sussex and Morris counties and throughout New Jersey. Call 862-354-8931 or contact me online to schedule a free initial consultation.