Holiday travel, weather, and parties bring dangerous traffic and road conditions that make for the perfect disaster. Car accidents during the winter months increase up to 20% compared to throughout the year. Idaho is actually one of the top three deadliest states for holiday highway travel, and the percent increase in fatalities is at 9% for just during the holidays. After a car accident, you should always seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Then, you should hire an experienced car accident attorney to help you navigate the legal process.
Why Car Accidents Spike During the Holiday Season
Driving during the holidays is perilous, and while we are trying to do some holiday shopping or make it to our parties on time, the weather takes a turn. Car accidents during the holidays come from a lack of caution and poor choices by other drivers. Drivers on the road might be from out of town, unfamiliar with the roads, and distracted by finding their way. They may also be inexperienced when driving in snowy road conditions.
While the holidays are merry and bright, always be aware that you share the reload with those who may have just left a holiday party. Drunk driving accidents increase by about 35% when it comes to the holidays. If you are attending a holiday party, plan ahead and utilize a ridesharing service or designate a driver. It’s up to us all to make good choices to ensure everyone makes it home safely.
How Winter Weather Aggravates Holiday Traffic Risks
Driving in winter weather takes experience and knowledge that some drivers may need to prepare for. If you are traveling during the holiday season, make sure that you are researching other states' winter road regulations to have any necessary equipment, such as mandatory chains on tires. You need to be knowledgeable enough to know how to drive in these conditions, and your vehicle needs to be prepared as well.
Winter weather that can lead to accidents:
- Icy roads
- Black ice
- Snow control
- Low visibility
- Daylight savings time
When the temperatures drop, the roads can quickly become slick with black ice that is hard to see, especially when it gets dark so early in the day. If you lose control of your vehicle due to icy road conditions, you are still liable for any damages or accidents that you cause. Slow down and give the weather the caution it deserves.
Common Causes of Holiday Season Car Accidents in Idaho
Safety is no accident, and it’s important to understand what brings holiday traffic to a stop and avoid it so we can all celebrate the holidays at home safely and soundly. It’s not just winter weather that brings an uptick in holiday car accidents but the poor choices of other drivers that cause them not to have the reaction time or complete control of their car to avoid a tragedy.
Common causes of accidents during the holidays are:
- Drunk Drivers
- Distracted drivers
- Drowsy drivers
- Aggressive DrivingÂ
- Poor vehicle maintenance
The increase in traffic already brings a higher chance of being in an accident, but the stress of the holidays wears on us all. Those drivers who are out can be fatigued, lost, or even dealing with road rage, and you could be in their path. When it comes to the holidays, prioritize your car’s maintenance and your family’s safety.
What to Do After a Holiday Car Accident in Idaho
Car accidents during the holidays can be scary. It has the unique challenge of being cold outside, so leaving the vehicle and waiting for emergency services can be almost impossible.
If you’re ever in a car accident, you should:
- Stay in your car unless it is absolutely necessaryÂ
- Call 911
- Take pictures and videos of the accident
- Gather contact info for everyone and even witnesses
- Seek medical attention
- Contact an experienced car accident attorney
- Notify your insuranceÂ
Be aware that if you are in a car accident in winter road conditions, other cars may have difficulty seeing you or even lose control and slide into your vehicle. Stay in your car unless absolutely necessary until authorities arrive. After your accident, contact Litster Frost Injury Lawyers to help guide you through the next steps of your claim and get your family on a path to receive fair compensation.
How Liability is Determined in Holiday Car Accidents
When it comes to car accidents in Idaho, determining liability means establishing liability. Idaho is an at-fault state, meaning that the injured parties can pursue a claim against the party who caused the accident. Accidents are almost always caused by human error. If another person’s negligence caused your family to suffer pain or injury, they should be held accountable, and Litster Frost can help.
How Litster Frost Can Help After a Holiday Season Car Accident
The holidays should be filled with joy and not the stress of financial struggles or injuries after a car accident. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact Litster Frost for a free consultation. Hiring a legal team with a proven record of success will maximize your compensation and ensure you can purchase your holiday gifts worry free.
