During the holidays, people tend to cut loose. They have more drinks, sometimes get a bit crazy, and then take to the roads in higher volumes than ever before leading to twice as many Columbia car accidents and deaths than during the entire rest of the year.
Common Columbia Car Accidents
While South Carolina has not been ranked as having the worst drivers in the United States, car accidents are still a prominent cause of injuries and deaths. While more than 13 traffic car accidents occur every hour, every day, at least two people are killed. The state’s traffic fatality rate of about 20 accident-related deaths per 100,000 people is almost double the national average.
South Carolina drivers received low scores on failing to obey traffic signals and drunk and reckless driving. Our state also has a high number of truck accidents involving logging trucks and long-haul tractor trailers.
The Center for Disease Control states the average cost of car crash-related deaths in S.C. is equal to approximately one billion dollars. If you factor in the costs of treating car accident injuries and the costs of property damage, medical costs, and lost wages, the figure is closer to two billion dollars.
Which Holidays Are the Most Dangerous for Columbia, South Carolina Drivers?
With a number of seasonal events right around the corner, millions of people will hit the roads to visit family and friends. While we listen to the latest traffic advisories, flight cancellations, and delays in mass transit, most of us are unaware of the fact that the holidays are very dangerous for drivers all over the country.
The National Safety Council (NSC) states the deadliest holiday is the Fourth of July perhaps because many families are driving at night to and from fireworks displays. The following is a list of the other five most dangerous holidays for drivers.
- Memorial Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Labor Day
- New Year’s Day
- Christmas Day
The number of people traveling every year influences the number of auto accidents and deaths during a holiday, and the strength of the economy influences the amount of driving we do. Recessions tend to save lives on the road.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC) Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years are the most dangerous holidays for drivers. The reasons include:
- More cars on the roadway
- People are more apt to be in a rush around the holidays
- During the winter months, there is a greater chance for rain, sleet, or snow
- Driver fatigue is very common
- Alcohol consumption increases, and with it, the number of drunks on the road
Some of the statistics for holiday auto accidents may make you more aware and better prepared when you travel this year:
- AAA estimated in 2014 that over 43.6 million Americans traveled the roads for the Thanksgiving holiday
- In 2010-2011, Progressive reported double the number of claims on the day after Thanksgiving (Black Friday)
- In December, auto accident claims increased by at least 20 percent over the rest of the year
- Over Christmas, 30 percent of Americans are expected to travel, many of whom will choose to drive
Safe Driving Advice to Avoid Columbia Car Accidents During the Holidays
Drinking over the holidays in Columbia, SC is a normal part of many celebrations. For those who plan to drink, it is important they be aware of their own safety and the safety of those sharing the roads.
Have a plan in place whether it includes taking a cab home, calling for a ride, or choosing not to get behind the wheel after indulging. This can mean the difference between a safe holiday and one that jeopardizes you and others on the road.
Most accidents occur during “rush hour’ between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. and Saturday is the most dangerous day of the week to drive because of more drunk drivers and more cars on the roadways. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, 31 percent of fatal drunk-driving instances occur between midnight and 3 a.m. Try to plan any trips or shopping excursions to avoid these high traffic times.
Victims of Columbia Car Accidents Should Consult with an Attorney
Columbia car accidents happen every day, but no two are alike. Your injuries are unique, resulting in hardships and legal barriers. If you are contacted by an insurance adjuster, do not give a statement or sign anything before you talk to a car accident attorney at Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers in Columbia, South Carolina. Your lawyer can fight for you to help you get the maximum settlement for your personal injuries.
