Thursday, December 10, 2015

Car Accidents Can Happen During Holiday Travel

Car Accidents in California Occur Often During Holidays
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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