Why Majority of Auto Accidents Happen on Weekends
Drivers should be aware that car accidents can occur, anywhere, and at any time. Regardless of your driving, there are others on the road that may not be as careful, or safe as you, so always drive defensively, and make smart and responsible decisions to minimize your risk of an accident. However, there are ways to avoid increased risk of collisions. One of these ways is to know the best time and day to be on the road. The most dangerous time to drive during the week is the weekend according to a study done by NHTSA (National Highway Safety Admin). It was concluded that the most dangerous day to drive is Saturday, followed by Friday, and then Sunday. There are three main reasons why NHTSA found that the rate of fatal accidents increases on the weekends.
- Alcohol Consumption
It is more common for people to consume alcohol on the weekends than during the workweek, therefore there is more intoxicated driving. Studies done by the NHTSA found that approximately a quarter of all drivers involved in fatal crashes during the weekend were alcohol related. Furthermore, the number of drivers in fatal crashes involving alcohol went up as the sun went down. Regardless of whether you are feeling “drunk”, alcohol slows your reaction-time, affects your vision and judgment, and can be dangerous on the road. If you are planning on being the designated driver, it’s best to skip the drinks all together and be sober and alert for the drive home. On weekend nights, pay attention to the condition of other drivers and steer clear of anyone who raises a red flag.
- Reckless Driving
The word reckless means not thinking of the consequences actions will have on you, or others. Reckless driving could mean speeding, cutting off drivers, and being impatient, or it could mean driving slowly, rolling through stop signs, or failing to check mirrors and blind spots. Generally, on the weekends drivers are out of their routine. Driving with friends or family in the car when you are not used to it can be distracting, you may be going places you’ve never been before, or you may not be on a time crunch and drive more lazily than usual. Whatever the case may be, stay alert and cautious. When on the road late at night, there may be reduced traffic, but that does not give you the green light to drive however you like.
- Larger Volume of Cars
Overall, weekends have a larger volume of cars traveling. The number of cars is highest on Saturday, followed by Friday, and then Sunday. The more congestion there is, the higher your chances are of getting into an accident. Constantly scan for drivers acting aggressively or out of the ordinary and steer clear. Only drive in the left lane when you are passing, and always check your mirrors and blind spots, especially if the roads are congested with cars.
Driving on the weekend is inevitable, and with that comes the risk of reckless, intoxicated, and congested driving. Making smart, responsible choices for your weekend driving is essential, but also be alert and prepared to react to other drivers who are not making those safe, responsible choices. The best thing you can do while driving on the weekend, is to not put your guard down.
CLG Injury Law has over 35 years’ experience representing Atlantic Canadians who have suffered injuries following a motor vehicle accident. For more articles and safety tips, go to https://cantiniinjurylaw.ca/blog/ or subscribe to our newsletter.
