The holidays are a time of fun and festivities, with individuals across Maryland taking time off to visit family and engage in yearly traditions. With the cheer of the holidays, however, comes an unfortunate uptick in Maryland driving accidents. There are three main reasons that these accidents increase around the holidays, and Maryland drivers should be aware and particularly cautious when driving this month.
First, the roads and highways are generally busier during the holiday season, as individuals often drive long distances to visit family and friends. Because of work schedules and time off, many individuals who wish to travel for the holidays do so around the same time, causing congestion in the streets and increasing the likelihood of an accident. In fact, the number of Americans traveling by car over the holiday season has been increasing each year—according to the American Automobile Association (AAA), about 102.1 million people traveled by car in December 2018, a 4.4% increase from 2017. The number is expected to be even higher this year.
Second, drivers may generally be more distracted and drowsier on the road, causing more preventable accidents to occur. The holiday season is busy, and individuals may stay out late at a holiday party and then find themselves extremely tired while driving home. Others may stay late at work in the weeks heading up to their vacation, leading to unfocused driving. Unfortunately, distracted and drowsy drivers are more likely to make risky decisions while driving, potentially leading to an accident.
The third, and potentially most dangerous, cause of the uptick in accidents are drivers under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, hundreds of individuals are killed by an intoxicated driver each year during the holiday season. In fact, each year an average of 300 people die in drunk driving accidents during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. Although drunk driving is against the law in all 50 states, it is still common in Maryland and expected to increase this month.
Of course, Maryland drivers are advised to be cautious and vigilant on the road, and never drive when they are distracted, exhausted, or under the influence. If an accident does happen, because of someone else’s negligent driving, victims can bring suit in court against the responsible party to recover for their injuries. Nothing can ruin a holiday season faster than unexpected injuries and costly medical bills, and bringing a civil suit can ensure that the financial strain of an accident doesn’t ruin a family holiday.
Do You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer this Holiday Season?
If you have suffered injuries in a Maryland car accident, you know how quickly the medical bills can add up and how the stress and aftermath of an accident can ruin a holiday season. To relax your mind, allow Lebowitz & Mzhen, Personal Injury Lawyers, to handle your case. Our attorneys will work tirelessly over the holiday season and beyond to earn you the compensation you deserve, so you can focus on spending time with your family and enjoying the holiday. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help and schedule a free initial consultation. Our toll-free number is 800-654-1949, and we look forward to hearing from you.