It is common knowledge that car accidents are more likely to happen during peak traffic hours, holidays, and when road conditions are poor. The statistics show more detailed information: A great deal of research shows the times of day when car accidents happen more often, and they are related to specific times of the year.
Some major U.S. holidays turn into holiday weekends, like Memorial Day. This is when some people consume more alcohol and substances than usual over several days and drive under the influence. Besides that, motorists might be traveling in unfamiliar areas, be out later at night, and take other risks that are not part of their usual routines.
In addition, students are off from school on holidays and more drive on the roads at different times of the day. As less experienced drivers, they can be more prone to having poor judgment and being unable to avoid accidents. It has also been reported that July, August, and October are the months with the highest numbers of deadly car accidents, with January and February being the lowest.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), fatal car accidents happen more often on weekends, especially Saturdays. Nonfatal crashes happen more often during the week, with Fridays being the most significant day. The most common time of day for all car accidents is from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., but this is an average for the entire year. Here is how it breaks down:
- Fatal car accidents often happen from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. from November to March.
- Nonfatal car accidents occur more frequently from noon until 4:00 p.m. in the spring and summer.
- The peak time for fatal crashes in the spring and summer is from 8:00 p.m. until midnight.
Is Driving at Night More Dangerous?
Those statistics show that fatal accidents happen more often at night because of reduced visibility. On top of that, there can be more impaired drivers at night since people can be more likely to imbibe after school or work than during the day.
Drivers may often be more fatigued during these late hours. Drowsy driving collisions happen most frequently from midnight until 6:00 a.m. The NSC also reported that nighttime DUI-related fatalities occur 3.1 times more often than daytime ones.
Our Alexandria Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Can Help You After a Crash
If you have been injured in a car wreck, you can contact the Law Offices of Duane O. King. Our experienced Alexandria car accident lawyers can fight to protect your rights. Complete our online form or call us at 202-331-1963 for a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., Alexandria, and Falls Church, Virginia, we serve clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.
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