With the temperature starting to drop outside, this is a sure sign that the holidays are right around the corner. At the same time, even though the holidays are a time for celebration with family members and friends, it is important for everyone to make sure they put safety first. The reality is that accidents tend to happen with greater frequency during the holidays. Why is this the case?

There are a few reasons why accidents are more common during the holidays. The first reason is that people tend to drink more during the holidays. Unfortunately, drunk driving remains a common cause of car accidents. When people make the decision to drink, they need to ensure they do not get behind the wheel of a car. Alcohol can make people tired, impact their judgment, and slow their reflexes. Anyone who is injured by a drunk driver in a car accident should know that trained professionals are always willing to lend a helping hand.

There are other reasons why car accidents tend to increase during the holidays as well. For example, there are simply more travelers on the road. The day before Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel days of the year. There are also tons of people driving during the days before and after Christmas, as people do not want to fly with presents. With more people on the road, the chances of being involved in a car accident go up.

Finally, it is also important to highlight the role that weather plays. During the winter months, the sun goes down earlier. Therefore, there are more people who have to drive in the dark. When this is combined with the prospect of winter weather, the roads can become unsafe. Black ice is a particularly serious threat as people drive during the holidays. If there is active precipitation coming down, this makes the roads that much more dangerous. For all of these reasons, it is important for everyone to make sure they drive safely during the holidays.

These are just a few of the biggest reasons why accidents tend to increase during the holidays. The good news is that there are ways that people can stay safe as they travel to visit loved ones during the holiday season. First, never drink and drive. Rely on the help of a designated driver or use a rideshare app. Second, when possible, do not drive at night. It is much harder to see what is going on when it is dark outside and this increases the chances of being involved in a crash. Finally, be patient and understand that traffic is going to be heavier.