The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and family gatherings. However, it’s also a time when car accidents spike significantly.
While festive activities are in full swing, roads often become more hazardous due to various factors. Understanding why accidents increase around the holidays can help you stay safe and know when to seek help from a car accident lawyer in Denver if you’re involved in a crash.
Holiday Traffic Volume: A Major Factor
The holiday season sees a dramatic rise in traffic volume as people travel for family gatherings, shopping, and vacations. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), holiday periods such as Thanksgiving and Christmas witness a significant increase in vehicle miles traveled, directly correlating to higher accident rates.
For instance, Colorado’s Department of Transportation (CDOT) reports that traffic fatalities tend to rise during the holiday season. Denver’s busy highways, including I-25 and I-70, become congested, increasing the risk of accidents. If you’re caught in a car wreck, a Denver car accident attorney can guide you through the legal process to protect your rights.
Drunk Driving Peaks During Holidays
Alcohol consumption often plays a major role in holiday celebrations. Unfortunately, this leads to an increase in drunk driving incidents. According to the NHTSA, nearly 29% of all fatal crashes in December involve alcohol impairment. Colorado’s Driving Under the Influence (DUI) laws, outlined under C.R.S. § 42-4-1301, carry severe penalties, but prevention remains key.
DUI-related accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities. If you or a loved one falls victim to a drunk driver, consulting a car wreck lawyer in Denver can help you seek compensation for your damages.
Distracted Driving: A Seasonal Hazard
Many drivers are distracted by holiday shopping, gift wrapping, and planning. Texting, checking directions, or even eating while driving contribute to rising accidents. According to the Colorado Distracted Driving Laws (C.R.S. § 42-4-239), texting while driving is prohibited, yet it remains a leading cause of crashes.
Statistics from the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) reveal that distracted driving was a factor in over 15% of crashes during the 2023 holiday season. An experienced auto accident attorney near me can assist in holding negligent drivers accountable.
Inclement Weather: A Colorado Challenge
Colorado’s unpredictable winter weather adds another layer of risk during the holidays. Snow, ice, and freezing rain create hazardous driving conditions, especially on mountain passes and highways. Data from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) shows that 24% of weather-related crashes occur on snowy or icy pavement, a common issue during Colorado’s holiday months.
Drivers are expected to take extra precautions in bad weather. Failure to do so may constitute negligence, making it essential to contact a top-rated accident lawyer in Denver if you’re injured in a weather-related accident.
Fatigued Driving: The Silent Risk
Holidays often lead to extended hours of travel or late-night events, contributing to driver fatigue. Fatigued driving can be as dangerous as drunk driving, impairing reaction times and decision-making abilities. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that drowsy driving causes an estimated 328,000 crashes annually in the U.S., with a notable increase around the holidays.
Colorado law allows accident victims to pursue compensation if another driver’s negligence causes a crash. A Denver car accident attorney can help gather evidence to support your claim.
Protecting Yourself on the Road
While the holiday season brings unique challenges, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of being involved in an accident:
- Plan Ahead: Avoid last-minute travel to reduce stress and distractions.
- Avoid Impairment: If you’re drinking, always arrange for a designated driver or use a ride-share service.
- Check the Weather: Be aware of conditions and adjust your driving accordingly.
- Stay Focused: Eliminate distractions such as texting or eating while driving.
- Rest Well: Ensure you’re fully rested before embarking on long trips.
If you’re still involved in a car crash despite taking precautions, seeking legal assistance from a car accident lawyer in Denver can help you recover damages.
How Levine Law Can Help After a Holiday Accident
Accidents during the holidays are stressful and can lead to severe financial and emotional burdens. If you’ve been injured due to another driver’s negligence, the team at Levine Law is here to help. As a top-rated accident lawyer in Denver, we specialize in handling complex holiday accident claims.
We understand Colorado’s personal injury laws and will work diligently to secure the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced Denver car accident attorney.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
The holiday season should be a time for joy, not tragedy. Unfortunately, increased traffic, impaired drivers, and adverse weather often lead to a spike in car accidents. You can minimize risks and protect yourself and your family by staying cautious and informed. However, if the unexpected happens, contact a reliable auto accident attorney near me to handle your case.
With Levine Law, you can focus on recovery while we fight for your rights. Don’t let a holiday accident derail your future—contact us today.
