Don’t Be a Traffic Statistic This Holiday Season

Although the holidays are meant to be a celebratory time of year, the holiday season, unfortunately, sees a large number of motor vehicle accidents. Here's what you need to know about avoiding becoming a traffic statistic this holiday season.

Holiday Traffic Accident Statistics

The National Safety Council estimates that about 350 to 400 people will be killed in auto accidents nationwide over the Christmas holiday, which can stretch as long as the evening of December 23rd through the late evening of December 26th. In addition, the NSC estimates that around 39,500 injuries requiring medical attention will occur over the Christmas holiday. 

For the New Year holiday, the NSC estimates that around 400 to 500 people will become fatalities in motor vehicle accidents across the U.S. The New Year's holiday normally includes the evening of New Year's Eve through New Year's Day, although it can also include the days surrounding New Year's Eve and Day. In addition, around 46,500 injuries requiring medical attention will occur in traffic accidents over the holiday. 

Steps to Take to Avoid Being Involved in an Auto Accident Over the Holidays

Several steps that can help reduce your chances of being involved in a motor vehicle accident during the holiday season include:

• Keep up with regular vehicle maintenance: Make sure that you are following your vehicle manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. If it has been a while since you have had your vehicle serviced, you may want to consider taking it to the mechanic to get checked out before heading on a long road trip.
• Rest up before a long road trip: Before you set off on the road for holiday travel, make sure to get a good night's rest. While on the road, make sure to take regular breaks to stretch, eat and drink, and get fresh air to help energize you. You should also consider trading off driving duties if you have another licensed driver traveling with you.
• Check your route: Read up on the weather and traffic reports before you leave. Have alternative routes planned in case you encounter heavy traffic or adverse weather.
• Avoid driving at night, if possible: Try to drive only during daylight hours, when accidents are less likely to occur due to increased visibility.
• Leave early: Try to leave for your destination as early as possible so that you do not feel pressured to speed or engage in careless or reckless driving to try to make up time to make it to your destination at a designated time.
• Put down the cell phone: While you may be glued to your phone for navigation, texting with family and friends to plan holiday events, or checking social media, one of the biggest hazards on the road is distracted driving. You should always have your full focus on the road. If you need to use your phone, pull over or pull into a parking lot.
• Never drink and drive: If you plan on going to a party or event over the holidays where you may drink alcohol, make a plan to get home safely. This may involve having a designated driver, calling an Uber/Lyft or a taxi, taking public transit, or staying over for the night.

Contact an Edison Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Auto Accident Case in New Jersey

Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to an auto accident in New Jersey? Don't let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Lombardi and Lombardi, P.A.represent clients injured because of auto accidents in Woodbridge, Old Bridge, Piscataway, New Brunswick, and throughout New Jersey. Call (732) 906-1500 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 1862 Oak Tree Road, Edison, NJ 08820, as well as offices in Edison, Brick, Freehold, and Point Pleasant Beach.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.