Originally published April 2, 2020.
Driving is a ubiquitous part of daily living, and that’s not changing. However, auto accidents remain one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. Because of this, it’s important to know the safest ways, and times, to drive
With the help of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), we are able to determine the safest times to get on the road.
Most Dangerous Times of the Year to Drive
Many drivers might assume that the most dangerous time of the year to drive is in the winter—with icy roads and reduced visibility, it makes sense! But the most dangerous time to drive is in the summer, particularly during the holidays.
The highest numbers of fatal accidents occur around Memorial Day, Labor Day, and the Fourth of July because so many people are on the roads. These crashes only increase as day turns into night, when more people are likely to drink and drive.
The Safest Times to Drive
According to the data, weekdays are generally safer times to drive, especially in the morning and early afternoon.
On the other hand, weekends (Friday through Sunday) tend to be the most dangerous times to drive, especially in the evenings or very early hours of the morning when there’s an increase in impaired drivers.
In 2020, there were 2,164 deaths nationally in crashes that occurred between the hours of 9 p.m. on Saturday and 3 a.m. on Sunday, more than during any other hours of the week.
Regardless of the day of week, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. is the deadliest time to drive in the U.S., perhaps from a combination of commuters and people going out for after-work drinks or dinner. In Indiana specifically, there are more fatal accidents during the 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. rush hour period on Tuesday through Thursday, although there are still more fatal accidents in the 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. period overall.
With the influx of cars at these peak times, the roads become more dangerous. If you can, adjust your routine so that you’re avoiding these hours. Even a 30-minute change can make a difference.
Injured in a Car Accident? Contact Wagner Reese Today
We understand how traumatizing getting into a car collision can be. If you were injured in an accident due to another’s negligence, we are here to help.
Our experienced Indianapolis attorneys have recovered millions for car accident victims, and we’re ready to guide you through this process, too.
Contact Wagner Reese today at (866) 544-2623 to schedule a free consultation.
