When we think of the holiday seasons, we typically picture extra family time, gifts, and good food. What we may not realize is that there is also an increase in the amount of accidents that occur during the holidays. It is common to see a higher amount of motor vehicle accidents and other injury producing accident throughout these couple of months than the rest of the year. There are various reasons that contribute to this statistic, so let’s dive in and take a look.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
While accidents occur all year long, it has been recognized that the holiday season brings about an above average amount of them. Here are some of the causes.
Increased Traffic
Lots of people do an increased amount of traveling around the holidays, which means more people out and about on the roads. This increase in traffic leads to more cars crammed into the same amount of space, and more potential for accidents to occur.
Drunk Driving
There is also an increase of intoxicated driving around the holidays. With many get-togethers and parties to get to, many people choose to indulge in alcoholic beverages, and then drive themselves home. It’s always best to be safe, call an Uber or Lyft, or arrange for a designated driver.
Poorly Maintained Cars
Around the holidays, there are many things on our minds. It can be easy to forget that there is regular maintenance that must be done to keep our cars running. Oil changes, tire rotations, and more, can all get placed on the backburner when preparing for family functions, travel, and parties. In addition, many people may need to cut expenses to make up for the additional funds being spent on gifts, and one seemingly disposable expense might be that oil change you have been meaning to get for a while.
Stress
It is typical for us to get stressed around the holidays. Our mind is a million places at once, trying to remember all the things you need to accomplish, and more. Unfortunately, that can lead to our attention drifting from the road while we are driving, causing us to be involved in an accident.
Personal Injuries
In addition to the increase in motor vehicle accidents, there is also an increase in other personal injury causes around the holidays. Let’s take a look at some of the accidents that can happen.
Falling While Decorating
Putting lights up around the outside of your home, getting the Christmas tree out of the attic, and other similar activities can all lead to a slip and fall accident. When you are decorating, be sure to use sturdy ladders and be sure of your footing and your reach at all times.
Fires
Between deep-fried turkeys and overworked space heaters, there is so much potential for a fire waiting to happen during the holidays. If you are doing anything around extreme temperatures and flammable oils, be sure to take all the necessary precautions.
Slick Surfaces
While we don’t often experience snow or ice in Las Vegas, there is always the chance of encountering a slick surface during the winter months. When handrails are present, be sure to use them, and be cautious of your footing while walking anywhere.
While there are other personal injuries that occur during the holidays, and other factors that contribute to motor vehicle accidents, overall, there is an increase in the occurrence of both of these events throughout the holiday season. Take precautions, use care, and if you happen to experience an accident or injury, contact our team of experts.