The fall
and winter holidays generally conjure thoughts of friends, family, and
festivities. When preparing for the holidays, most people plan menus, make gift
lists, and fill their calendars with parties and gatherings. People usually do
not automatically associate the holidays with auto accidents. Unfortunately,
the number of motor vehicle accidents in the United States tend to increase
during the holidays, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA).1
Specifically, some of the deadliest holidays include Thanksgiving and New
Years. If you are injured in a holiday car accident, you should contact an
attorney who knows how to handle Los Angeles car accident cases as soon as
possible.
The
following are some of the most common reasons for the increased risk of collisions
during the holidays:
Traffic
congestion – There
tend to simply be more vehicles out on the roads during the holiday season.
Whether motorists are taking road trips to visit relatives or friends or simply
going on multiple shopping trips, the highways, roads, and even parking lots in
and around Los Angeles are generally congested. Whenever such congestion
occurs—combined with drivers who are often in a hurry—there are bound to be
accidents.
Unfamiliar
roads – When a
driver is not familiar with a road or an area, the risk of mistakes behind the
wheel often increases. Drivers may not know where to turn, may miss traffic
signals, or may not be familiar with potential hazards on the highways,
including curves, on and off ramps, and more. This increased potential for
driver error contributes to the increase in collisions.
Drinking
and driving – Holidays mean parties and parties often mean
champagne and other alcoholic beverages. While there is no harm in relaxing
with a bottle of wine with friends, the risk of accidents occurs when these
revelers then get behind the wheel of a car. Not only is driving under the influence of
alcohol (DUI) against California law,2
but it can also result in serious accidents and injuries.
If you have
sustained any type of injury due to a negligent party, call an attorney to
discuss your Los Angeles car accident case today.
Steven M. Sweat, APC
5757 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 450
Los Angeles, CA 90036
For more information about car accidents in the Palmdale area, please visit: http://antelopevalleyaccidentattorneys.blogspot.com
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