In a busy place like Houston, car accidents happen every day. But when the holidays roll around, the possibility of being in an accident increases. There are reasons for this and it’s more than folks going for pumpkin-spiced lattes.
Nationally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that accidents always increase during holiday periods, including holiday weekends. There are multiple reasons for this increase; here are a few.
Weather Conditions
Here in Houston, we know we can experience all four seasons in a week, especially during the holiday season. On Monday, the high is 80 degrees, on Wednesday, a front drops the high down to 60 degrees, and a subsequent front brings freezing weather, ice, and possibly snow with sleet for Saturday. Suddenly your visibility decreases, or you don’t see the “black ice” on the road. And if a severe winter storm is predicted, (especially with snow) it seems that everyone decides, “we need to go out and shop!”
It goes without saying that winter weather can lead to cars sliding into other cars, people, two-wheeled vehicles, poles, and front doors of buildings. High winds, fog, sleet and/or snow, and frozen-over bridges make driving anywhere in the Bayou City a serious risk any time of year. But during the winter holidays, when everyone is out driving, you’ll have a higher chance of an accident.
More Drivers
The holidays quickly get busy. Parties, shopping, errands, and other end-of-year activities mean that a month is not a month. More people are driving from place to place, especially in the days before
Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve.
In spite of these being occasions for family and friends, it can also lead to increased stress levels in everyone. While you may be alert and focused on your driving, the driver next to you may be in a distracted state of mind. Perhaps they just had a family argument or are facing a lonely holiday due to divorce or a recent loss of a spouse. Driving in traffic during the holidays could compound their frustration. A distracted driver is a problem and often a contributing factor in a car accident.
People are also traveling and visiting relatives, all around Texas, drivers who may not make such trips only once or twice a year. Out of state travelers may not be familiar with Texas roads or how to drive in winter weather conditions.
Mixing in local drivers impatient with drivers who are unfamiliar and you get a recipe for possible disaster. Too many drivers on the road decrease reaction time and drivers are challenged. Poor weather conditions, distracted drivers, impatient drivers, and the sheer volume of drivers on the road all contribute to accidents.
Drunk Driving/Reckless Driving
Whether it’s a cold beer, a glass of wine, or a hot toddy, alcohol is a part of many holiday celebrations. From Thanksgiving through New Year’s, it’s not uncommon for many people to enjoy increased drinking. Even though you shouldn’t drive after drinking, many people do, and in the process they:
• Ignore stop signs and traffic signals
• Go beyond the posted speed limits
• Get distracted
• Text or talk while driving
Everyone knows you shouldn’t drink and drive but too many folks take a chance or underestimate their ability. Unfortunately if you come across a drunk driver you may end up involved in an accident with an impaired driver.
Shorter Days And More Night Driving
This year, Daylight Savings Time ended on November 6th. The days will end earlier, and the sun will set at 5 or 6 pm. This means everyone will be driving more at night, especially going to and from parties.
Visibility is diminished after dark even with working headlights. Additionally, evening or night driving is especially dangerous, as people may fall asleep at the wheel due to fatigue or drinking before driving.
Keep Your Car Maintained
When you’re busy with holiday activity, it’s easy to forget to check your engine’s oil, brake fluid, tire pressure, and other preventive maintenance. Don’t skip any of the safety checks just because it’s Thanksgiving or Christmas. Colder weather can lower the air pressure in your tires, leading to a blowout and a possible accident. Low oil can lead to serious engine problems that will leave you stranded. Lower temperatures can also affect your car’s overall performance.
Houston Car Accident Attorney
An accident this time of year is one way to ruin your holiday season. We hope that your holidays are safe and happy, but if you do experience an accident, we’re ready to help.
Contact Paxton Law Firm today, and we’ll review your case and advise you of your rights. The Paxton Law Firm will work to obtain compensation for your losses including medical bills and long term rehabilitation. We offer free consultations, and you do not pay any legal fees until we recover for you.
