The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and celebration. Yet, due to increased road hazards, festive travel can quickly become a nightmare for many drivers.
With crowded highways, distracted drivers, and seasonal weather conditions, the risk of car accidents surges during the holidays.
Here, we delve into common holiday car accident scenarios, highlight ways to stay safe, and explain how a Miami car accident lawyer can help if your holiday drive takes a dangerous turn.
Increased Traffic Congestion and Collisions
The holidays bring a surge in road traffic as families travel to visit loved ones or head to vacation destinations. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there is a significant spike in vehicle collisions during Thanksgiving and Christmas. In 2020, over 4,500 fatalities occurred in car accidents during the holiday season, a 13% increase compared to non-holiday periods.
Heavy traffic often leads to rear-end collisions and multi-car pileups, especially on highways. Oklahoma’s comparative negligence law (Oklahoma Statutes Title 23 §23-13) could impact your ability to recover damages if you’re involved in such an accident.
This law states that your percentage of fault may reduce your compensation in the incident. Seeking guidance from an auto accident lawyer in Oklahoma can ensure your rights are protected if the fault is disputed.
Distracted Driving During Festive Activities
Holiday distractions are everywhere—drivers texting holiday greetings, using GPS for navigation, or even eating in the car during long trips. According to the NHTSA, distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of car accidents, accounting for nearly 9% of all traffic fatalities in 2021.
Oklahoma has strict laws to curb distracted driving. Under Oklahoma Statutes Title 47 §47-11-901d, texting while driving is prohibited, and violations can lead to fines and increased liability in the event of an accident. If you’re injured in a distracted driving crash, a car accident attorney in Miami can help prove the at-fault driver’s negligence and fight for maximum compensation.
Drunk Driving Accidents
The holiday season is synonymous with social gatherings, many of which involve alcohol. Unfortunately, drunk driving incidents tend to spike during this time. The NHTSA reports that nearly one-third of all car crash fatalities during December involve alcohol-impaired drivers.
Oklahoma enforces strict penalties for driving under the influence (DUI), including fines, license suspension, and jail time. Victims of drunk driving accidents may also pursue civil claims for damages. A top-rated car wreck attorney in Miami can assist you in seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress caused by a reckless drunk driver.
Weather-Related Crashes
Oklahoma’s unpredictable winter weather can lead to icy roads, reduced visibility, and treacherous driving conditions. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), weather-related crashes account for over 1.2 million accidents annually, with 17% occurring during snow or ice storms.
Drivers are legally required to exercise caution in adverse weather conditions. Failing to adjust speed or maintain control on slippery roads can lead to liability in an accident. If you’re injured in a weather-related crash, consulting with an auto accident lawyer in Oklahoma can help you determine whether negligence played a role.
Fatigued Driving on Long Trips
Many holiday travelers drive for hours without adequate rest, leading to driver fatigue. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety estimates that drowsy driving contributes to over 100,000 crashes annually. Fatigued drivers are slower to react and may even fall asleep behind the wheel, increasing the likelihood of catastrophic accidents.
If a fatigued driver causes an accident, proving their negligence can be challenging. An experienced car accident attorney near me can investigate the case, gathering evidence such as cell phone records, GPS data, or eyewitness testimony to support your claim.
Holiday Shopping Frenzy and Parking Lot Accidents
The hustle and bustle of holiday shopping often lead to minor and sometimes severe accidents in busy parking lots. Aggressive drivers vying for limited spaces and pedestrians distracted by their shopping lists create a recipe for disaster.
Oklahoma law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in parking lots, and failing to do so can lead to liability for injuries. If you’ve been hurt in a parking lot collision, a Miami car accident lawyer can guide you through the claims process and help you recover damages.
Steps to Take After a Holiday Car Accident
If you’re involved in a car accident during the holidays, take the following steps to protect your rights and build a strong claim:
- Prioritize Safety: If possible, move to a safe location and call 911 for medical and police assistance.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, a prompt medical evaluation is essential for your health and your claim.
- Contact an Attorney: An experienced car accident attorney in Miami can help you navigate insurance claims and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Why You Need a Car Accident Attorney
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially during the holiday season. Insurance companies may downplay your injuries or attempt to minimize your settlement. A top-rated car wreck attorney in Miami can handle negotiations with insurers, build a compelling case, and represent you in court if necessary.
At Doney Law, we’re committed to helping accident victims in Oklahoma secure the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a holiday car accident, contact us today for a free consultation. Let us take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on recovery.
Contact Doney Law for Assistance
The holidays should be a time of joy, not tragedy. You can reduce the risk of accidents by staying vigilant and practicing safe driving habits. If the unexpected happens, Doney Law is here to help. Contact our office to speak with an experienced Miami car accident lawyer and ensure your rights are protected.
