Protect Yourself from Catastrophic Car Injuries During the Holidays

The holiday season may bring families and friends together, but with increased travel comes an increased risk of car accidents. Holiday travel presents unique hazards and challenges, and drivers should know how to protect themselves and their family, keeping a safe journey from becoming a tragic event. 

Holiday Travel Brings a Rise in Traffic Accidents

During the Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s holidays alone, millions more vehicles hit the road than during non-holiday periods. The American Automobile Association (AAA) estimates that more than 100 million people travel during the holiday season, with most of those travelers choosing to drive. Unfortunately, with increased travel comes an uptick in road accidents, and data from the National Safety Council (NSC) shows that traffic fatalities often rise by 10% or more during these holiday periods. 

What Contributes to Accidents During the Holidays?

The holidays bring unique road conditions that increase the likelihood of accidents, especially as winter weather rolls in and people face busier, sometimes unfamiliar roads. Some of the common holiday travel hazards include: 

1. Winter Weather Conditions: Ice, snow, and sleet reduce tire traction and increase the chances of skidding or losing control. Less visibility from snowfall or fog can also make it challenging to spot other vehicles or obstacles, contributing to severe accidents. 
2. More Vehicles on the Road: With millions of people taking to the highways during the holidays, congestion becomes a common issue, leading to slowed response times and increased accidents. Busy highways also result in impatient drivers, who may make risky maneuvers to cut through traffic. 
3. Higher Risk of Impaired Driving: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 1,000 drunk-driving crashes during the month of December in recent years. Impaired drivers are more prone to losing control, resulting in higher chances of serious collisions. 
4. More Commercial Vehicles on the Road: The demand for goods peaks during the holiday season, leading to a surge in delivery trucks, semis, and other commercial vehicles. These vehicles are larger and harder to maneuver, and any accident involving a truck or commercial vehicle can have devastating consequences. 
5. Driver Fatigue: Many holiday travelers drive long distances, often late at night or early in the morning. Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and a greater likelihood of falling asleep behind the wheel, all of which increase accident risks. 

Tips for Safe Holiday Driving

Staying safe on the road during the holidays requires a bit of extra caution and preparation. Some practical tips to keep in mind include: 

1. Prepare for Winter Weather: Check weather forecasts and road conditions and be ready to delay travel if severe weather is expected. Equip your vehicle with snow tires, or—at the very least—ensure that your tires are in good shape. Always carry essentials like an ice scraper, de-icing spray, a blanket, and an emergency kit. 
2. Plan for Extra Time and Rest: Holiday traffic can slow travel times, so plan your route ahead and allow extra time to get to your destination safely. Avoid driving late at night or during early morning hours to minimize fatigue. For long trips, schedule regular breaks or consider splitting the journey into manageable segments. 
3. Drive Defensively: Defensive driving means increasing your following distance, particularly in poor weather conditions, and being prepared for sudden stops. Avoid using your phone or engaging in other distractions, and always have an exit strategy to avoid potential accidents. 
4. Avoid Drinking and Driving: Designate a sober driver, use rideshare services, or arrange alternative transportation options if alcohol is involved in your plans. 
5. Be Cautious Around Trucks and Delivery Vehicles: Commercial vehicles take longer to stop and have larger blind spots. Give them extra space on the road, avoid lingering in their blind spots, and signal well in advance when merging or changing lanes.

What to Do in the Event of Catastrophic Accident

Despite your best efforts, accidents can still happen, especially during high-risk travel periods. A catastrophic accident can leave victims with severe injuries, significant financial burdens, and uncertainty about their future. What should you do if you or a loved one is involved in a serious accident? 

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention right away. Injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries may not be immediately apparent but can worsen over time. Medical documentation also serves as important evidence in any car accident case. 
2. Report the Accident: Report the accident to authorities and obtain an official report, which is crucial for insurance claims or legal action.
3. Document the Scene: Take pictures of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, weather conditions, and any visible injuries. Exchange contact information with witnesses who can support your claim if needed. 
4. Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer: Catastrophic accidents can be complex, especially if multiple parties are involved or if a commercial vehicle is part of the incident. Consulting a skilled car accident attorney can help you secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. 

Knowing When to File a Lawsuit

After a catastrophic accident, many people wonder if they should pursue legal action, especially when the accident wasn’t their fault. You should consider filing a personal injury lawsuit if there are: 

1. Severe Injuries or Long-Term Impairment: You deserve compensation to cover the cost of ongoing care, rehabilitation, and other long-term expenses. 
2. Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: If the accident has impacted your ability to work or will affect your future earning potential, you have the right to pursue damages. 
3. Signs of Clear Liability: If another party’s negligence—such as drunk or reckless driving—caused the accident, you may be eligible for compensation. 
4. Disputed Insurance Claims: Insurance companies may not always offer a fair settlement, particularly when it comes to catastrophic accidents. A lawsuit can help you secure a settlement that truly reflects the financial impact of the accident on your life. 

Protect Yourself This Holiday Season

Driving safely during the holidays is crucial, but it’s also important to know what to do if an accident happens. At Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, we’re here to support you in times of need. Our experienced legal team can help you understand your options and fight for the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been catastrophically injured in a car accident, get in touch with us today for a free case consultation.