Car Accident Risks Over Labor Day Weekend
Auto accidents are more likely to happen on a holiday weekend due to the increased traffic on the roads. The National Safety Council predicts that 456 people will die in an auto accident during this year’s Labor Day weekend. The official period of the three-day holiday starts on Friday, September 2, at 6 p.m. and ends at midnight on Monday, September 5.
This year’s estimates are for 2% fewer deaths than the ones during the Labor Day holiday in 2021, which is hopeful. Most people do not understand the risks.
When calculated on a per-passenger-mile basis, automobile transportation has the highest risk of fatalities of any form of transport. The real culprit is driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
Even though most people know that drunk driving is extremely dangerous, the problem comes from an impaired person’s inability to evaluate their condition properly. Their lack of judgment causes them to get behind the wheel when intoxicated and perhaps kill themselves and others.
How to Have a Safer Labor Day Weekend
If at all possible, avoid driving during this holiday weekend. Don’t drink or use drugs and drive. Have a designated sober driver to take people home or make arrangements to have them stay over until the holiday passes. If you must drive a long distance to an event or destination, get up early and drive after the sun comes up when there is less traffic, and the visibility is good.
Avoid distracted driving by not using a mobile phone or playing music loudly. Be especially careful when you have noisy children in the car. Keep your stress levels down by being patient and avoiding irritation.
Take your time when driving, and try not to rush. Drive defensively. Do not engage with bad drivers by expressing anger, such as honking your horn at them or making an obscene gesture. Road rage may cause another driver’s violent, perhaps deadly, response.
Be aware that most car accidents happen within 25 miles of your home. You do not have to be on the highway to have a major traffic accident. You can get killed just as easily by a drunk driver running a red light in a city area.
Be Prepared
If you or a loved one gets in a traffic accident, especially with serious injuries or death, you want to talk to an attorney before speaking to anyone else. Never say you are sorry after a car accident. What you say to others can be used against you as evidence. Don’t post anything on social media. You need the help of an attorney to protect your rights.
Write down this number (281) 475-4535 and keep a copy in your car to remind you to use it if you have an accident. Add the attorney’s telephone number to your phone contacts.
If you experience an accident and need help, you may also contact your attorney online to set up an appointment for a free consultation.