How to Drive Safely in Holiday Traffic

More than 36,000 injuries occurred after car accidents in Arizona last year, and nearly 55,000 accidents total occurred across the state in 2018. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, a large portion of these wrecks is caused by holiday traffic.

In fact, AAA reported that more than 96 million people countrywide traveled during the holidays in 2016, and up to 53% of travelers drive over 99 miles to their destinations, making long-distance trips particularly popular.

With the holiday season approaching, it’s important to stay safe on the roads.

If you’ve been involved in an auto accident in Arizona, contact our Phoenix vehicle accident attorneys at ELG Law. Our team of vehicle accident lawyers is here to help with a no-hassle consultation today.

Stay Sober on the Road

First, it’s important to note that impaired driving and speeding are the two most common causes of holiday traffic fatalities. To avoid this, ensure you leave early and take proper time getting to your destination.

Furthermore, avoid drinking and driving. If you’ve been drinking at a holiday event, get a designated driver or wait until the next day to leave. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 39% of fatal holiday accidents are caused by driving while intoxicated.

Finally, refrain from driving on the busiest travel days of the year, if possible. The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day, with the heaviest traffic on this day occurring between 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Avoid Speeding and Reckless Driving

Aside from avoiding busy traveling days and high-traffic roads in the afternoon, observe normal safe driving rules. Don’t drive aggressively by tailgating or weaving in and out of traffic. Always leave earlier, stay calm, and observe the laws of the road while driving. And if a fellow driver is behaving aggressively, remain cool and collected. Avoid responding to their aggressive actions.

Another component of defensive driving is anticipating other drivers’ actions. You can’t control other drivers on the road, but you can keep your eyes open to stay safe. For example, if you’re stopped at an intersection and the light turns green, it’s best to wait a few seconds before proceeding. Because other drivers may run red lights, you should scan the intersection to ensure it’s clear before proceeding.

Auto Accident Lawyer in Phoenix

Though holiday traffic accidents are common, many can be avoided. Drive defensively, avoid travel on certain days, and leave yourself enough time to get to your destination to lower your chances of a serious car accident. If you are involved in a wreck, however, contact your auto accident attorney as soon as possible.

Your lawyer can help you maneuver the facts of your case, allowing you to recover from your accident and navigate the aftermath hassle-free.

If you’ve sustained injuries in a car wreck, contact our Phoenix accident lawyers at ELG Law today. Call us at (623) 562-3838 for a no-obligation, free consultation, and legal aid.