Is Memorial Day weekend the deadliest holiday for auto accidents?

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Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States that honors all American veterans who have given their lives in sacrifice to protect our nation. People look forward to Memorial Day weekend as they have time off of work and can spend quality time with their friends and families. For many, Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer as it typically falls on the last Monday of May. That being said, as a result of the nice weather people typically attend outdoor celebrations that include barbequing, fireworks, and drinking. While this holiday is a time to celebrate, it is also the most dangerous time to be on the road as there is an increased likelihood of serious accidents and injuries. Keep reading to learn why Memorial Day weekend is the deadliest holiday for car accidents and discover how an experienced Westchester County Car Accident Lawyer can help you. 

Why does Memorial Day weekend have the highest car accident fatality rates?

Traditionally, families drive all across the U.S. the attend Memorial Day celebrations. With this, there are more people on the road than on any other regular weekend. This means motorists deal with significant traffic delays which can cause them to become impatient and drive aggressively which can lead to serious collisions. Motorists also deal with more distractions during this time which increases the chances of an accident. Additionally, motorists may suffer from sleep deprivation which can cause them to drift into other lanes and have slower reaction times to potential roadway hazards. Families sometimes travel over 50 miles to attend Memorial Day weekend parties. Motorists must ensure they rest enough so they can ensure they can remain alert while behind the wheel to prevent car crashes. Research shows that motorists are four times more likely to die in a car accident this holiday weekend than any other weekend during the year.

Compared to other holidays, Memorial Day weekend has the highest average fatality rate for car accidents. This is because people tend to drink more alcohol during holiday weekends. Unfortunately, individuals under the influence often make the poor decision to get behind the wheel while they are impaired.  Alcohol diminishes a motorist’s cognitive abilities needed to safely operate a vehicle. According to research, in 2020, 41% of all fatal car accidents during Memorial Day weekend involved alcohol-impaired drivers. That being said, to prevent serious accidents, you should appoint a designated driver or plan your ride home ahead of time to ensure everyone on the road is kept out of harm’s way.

If you or a loved one were injured in a car accident, it is imperative to retain a determined Westchester County car accident lawyer who can help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Our firm is prepared to represent your interests today.