Federal and state agencies have found many things that are likely to cause road-related accidents. Among the most common factors are not wearing a seatbelt, drinking and driving, and driving while distracted. But one factor that doesn’t get much attention is timing. Certain months, days, and even times of the day are more dangerous for drivers.
Typically, a crowded road presents a greater risk of accidents. By volume, most accidents happen during afternoon rush hours from 5pm-7pm, when almost every driver is eager to go home or others are on their way out for the evening. However, when considering individual driver risk, the bad times of day are 12am-4am. Lack of adequate light, compromised night vision, and impaired driving are the main reasons that accidents are more likely to happen at night.
Regardless of the time of the day, Saturdays have the highest death rate of accidents–about 158 fatalities, compared to other days’ average of 110. When it comes to the month, August happens to be the worst. Out of the 25 riskiest days in the U.S., seven fall in August.
Having a reason to celebrate makes many of America’s holiday seasons very risky to drivers. The Fourth of July is deemed to be the deadliest day every year. Obviously, there are many people who go on drinking sprees and drive even when drunk, increasing the accident risks. For the same reason, the period ranging from Memorial Day to Labor Day has been labelled as “The 100 Deadliest Days” for teenage drivers.
Pedestrians too must be mindful. According to reports, New Year’s Day has the highest pedestrian fatalities.
If you or a loved one were injured in an accident, you may be entitled to money damages. For a free case evaluation, contact the experienced personal injury lawyers at Wright Pichon & Gray.