Memorial Day is a time for honoring those who have served our country, but it also marks one of the most dangerous holidays for drivers. As families and friends gather to celebrate, the increased traffic and festivities contribute to a spike in car accidents and other injuries. Understanding these risks can help keep everyone safer during the holiday weekend.
A Surge in Car Crashes
Memorial Day weekend has the highest incidence of car crashes compared to other holidays. The reports that car crashes during this period are four times higher than any other holiday. Contributing factors include:
- Drunk Driving: 37% of fatal crashes involve a drunk driver.
- Seat Belt Neglect: 52% of traffic deaths occur when seat belts are not used.
- Traffic Violations: An alarming statistic shows that 12 red lights are run every second during the Memorial Day Holiday weekend.
2024 Memorial Day Fatality Estimates
The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that 418 people might die on U.S. roads over the Memorial Day holiday period in 2024. Although this is an 11% decrease from the previous year’s estimate, it still highlights the significant risk. The holiday period, from 6 p.m. on Friday, May 24 to 11:59 p.m. on Monday, May 27, will see heavy traffic as people travel to visit family and friends.
Common Causes of Accidents
Several factors contribute to the increased number of accidents during Memorial Day weekend:
- Fatigued Driving: Long-distance travel leads to driver fatigue, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Drivers unfamiliar with local roads may get distracted by looking for directions or using their phones.
- Heavy Traffic: Increased traffic volume often results in road rage and erratic driving behaviors.
- The Risk of Drunk Driving – Alcohol consumption is a major concern during Memorial Day weekend. Many celebrations involve drinking, which significantly raises the risk of drunk driving incidents. Not only is drunk driving a leading cause of car crashes, but it also makes it harder to find rideshare services, leaving more people to risk driving under the influence.
Common Injuries During Memorial Day Weekend
Accidents over the Memorial Day weekend can lead to a variety of injuries, including:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries and Spinal Cord Injuries: Resulting from car crashes and slip-and-fall accidents.
- Burns: From barbecues and fireworks.
- Drowning Incidents: Increased activity in pools and natural water bodies raises the risk of drowning, particularly for unsupervised children.
- Broken Bones and Lacerations: Common in both traffic accidents and outdoor activities.
Staying Safe This Memorial Day
- Plan Ahead: If you plan to drink, designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service, or plan to stay overnight.
- Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on the road, especially if driving in unfamiliar areas.
- Practice Safe Grilling and Fireworks Use: Keep a close watch on children and maintain safety zones around fire hazards.
- Swim Safely: Always supervise children near water and use personal flotation devices when boating.
Legal Support for Your Injuries
Despite precautions, accidents can still happen. If you or a loved one is injured over the Memorial Day weekend, it’s crucial to seek legal representation to protect your rights. Contacting experienced attorneys can help navigate the complexities of personal injury claims and ensure you receive the support you need.
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sources
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)