For many, the three-day Labor Day weekend is the last piece of Summer before the school year gets into full swing. There can be festivals, parades, barbeques, and fireworks for everyone to enjoy as Summer winds down into Fall. However, it is also a dangerous weekend for countless drivers on the road.
According to The National Safety Council (NSC), the leading safety advocate organization within the United States, an average of 400 Americans are involved in fatal car accidents in Durham over the Labor Day weekend every year. An additional 49,000 people will be involved in non-fatal car accidents over that same span of time.
Why Labor Day Car Crashes Happen
Spikes in holiday and holiday weekend car accidents can occur for several reasons, such as alcohol consumption, additional roadway traffic, distracted driving, and possible weather conditions. For Labor Day weekend, many crashes involve alcohol consumption, due to the festive nature of the holiday, and the readily accessible alcohol at parties and barbeques.
Regardless of the reason, the crashes that occur on Labor Day weekend might result in a person being seriously injured or even killed.
Tips on How to Ensure a Safer Labor Day Weekend
The Labor Day weekend is quick approaching, so we have compiled a few tips for you to ensure that you have an enjoyable and safe holiday weekend:
- Designate an alcohol and drug-free driver
- Get plenty of sleep before getting behind the wheel of a vehicle
- Drive during daylight hours for optimal visibility
- Allow extra time to reach your destination, and be prepared to drive slow
- Avoid distractions—such as cell phones and maps while you drive
- Ensure everyone in the vehicle is using their seat belt properly
Contact a Knowledgeable Attorney Today
While these tips may be helpful, there are still drivers on the road who do not follow proper safety protocol while operating a vehicle. Even if you do everything right, there are neglectful drivers on the road who may not prioritize their safety, or your safety, during the holiday weekend.
If you, or someone you love, was involved in a car accident during a holiday weekend, such as Labor Day, it may be in your best interest to pursue legal action. The attorneys at Whitley Law Firm have experience dealing with drunk, reckless, or negligent drivers who put their safety, and the safety of others on the road, at risk during holiday weekends. Our compassionate attorneys could assist you in understanding your rights, filing your claim, or pursuing legal action against a reckless driver.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
