The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that there are typically more motor vehicle crashes during the holiday period compared to the non-holiday season. For instance, in 2017, the average amount of motor vehicle crash fatalities during festive times was 119 per day compared to 102 per day during other times of the year. In Georgia, fatal crashes increase by 23 percent during the holidays. 6% of Georgia's annual traffic-related deaths occur during the holiday period. The most dangerous time for road travel in Georgia is the Fourth of July.
Of course, not all motor vehicle crashes involve fatal injuries and death. For the 2019 holiday period, the National Safety Council reported that 13,100 nonfatal medically consulted physical injuries resulting from auto crashes during Christmas. If you've been involved in a car accident during the holiday season that wasn't your fault, it's essential to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. At Marks Law Group, our skilled Decatur personal injury attorney has helped hundreds of car accident victims recover fair compensation and we can help you, too. Contact our personal injury law firm today for a no-cost initial consultation.
What are the Common Causes for a Car Accident During the Holiday Season in Georgia?
Road congestion. There are typically more vehicles on the roadways during the holiday season because of holiday shopping, road trips, and school or work events. Naturally, with more vehicles on the road, there are increased chances of getting into a motor vehicle collision.
Intoxicated driving. Alcohol-related traffic crashes are common during this time of year, especially with many drivers and passengers going to or returning from holiday parties. Drunk drivers drive recklessly and have delayed responses while driving in holiday traffic jams, which leads to alcohol-related crashes.
Stress. The holiday period is also an extremely stressful time for everyday Americans while they're traveling to buy decorations, food, gifts, and other holiday necessities. An increase in fatigue and stress can lead to aggressive driving and an increase in traffic accidents on Georgia roads.
Weather conditions. This Christmas and New Year holiday season coincide with winter weather, which can result in cooler days and nights. When driving watch out for ice, sleet, or snow. Inclement weather plays a crucial role in traffic accidents, and it can even add to the road rage and stress drivers may already be experiencing.
Poor motor vehicle maintenance. Drivers may also be slacking on regular maintenance on their vehicles because they're saving up for other holiday necessities, or they just don't have enough time.
How Can I Reduce my Risk of Sustaining Injuries in a Georgia Traffic Accident?
There are several precautions you can take to reduce your risk of a Georgia traffic accident and limit your bodily injuries during a motor vehicle crash. These include:
Giving yourself a ton of time to get where you're going;
Driving under the legal speed limit;
Drive as fast as is safe in the current conditions;
Avoid driving aggressively or tailgating;
Avoiding road rage by keeping your temper under control;
Adhering to all traffic rules and regulations;
Driving defensively;
Being vigilant in parking lots and in traffic jams;
Always wearing your seatbelt/making sure all passengers in your vehicle wear their seatbelts;
Limiting passengers in your vehicle;
Avoiding driving while drunk; and
Avoiding distracted driving or fatigued driving.
What Should I Do Following a Holiday Auto Crash?
At Marks Law Group, our car accident lawyers aggressively represent our clients throughout every phase of the car accident claim process. Our skilled Decatur auto accident attorneys understand how important it's to build a strong case to help our clients recover the compensation they need. It's crucial for you to know that the steps you take following a holiday car accident can also immensely help your auto accident lawsuits. Following an automobile accident you should:
Call the police as soon as possible.
Remain at the accident scene and wait for the police and other emergency services to arrive.
Seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
Take photographs of your car and other vehicles involved in the accident.
Record the name, contact information, license number, and vehicle registration of all drivers and vehicles involved in the accident.
If you’re a victim of auto accident fatalities during the holiday period and have sustained bodily injuries and financial damages because of a holiday driver’s negligence or fault, contact the skilled car accident lawyers at Marks Law Group today at (678) 251-9309 for a free case review. Our skilled Decatur personal injury lawyers can assess your circumstances and determine if you're eligible to file a case to recover financial damages. Marks Law Group is committed to getting justice for victims involved in motor vehicle accidents, rear-end collisions, road rage accidents, and stop sign accidents.
