Truck Accidents Spike During Holiday Travel Season

The holiday season is a time for celebration, family, and travel, but it’s also a time when truck accidents tend to spike. With the roads crowded and the weather conditions unpredictable, truck drivers and other motorists face heightened risks of accidents. Understanding why truck accidents rise during this period can help you stay alert and safe on the roads.

Increased Traffic on the Roads

One of the main reasons truck accidents surge during the holiday travel season is the sheer volume of traffic on the roads. More people are traveling to visit family and friends, go on vacations, or run errands. This increase in vehicle traffic means more congestion, more potential distractions, and a greater chance of collisions.

When there are more vehicles on the road, truck drivers face more challenges navigating through the traffic. It’s essential for all drivers to slow down and be extra vigilant during these busy times. While this is a fact of life during this time of year, for many truck drivers, there is no accommodation in their delivery schedule for this. As a result, their chances of being involved in an accident also rise.

Weather Conditions Can Make Driving Hazardous

Another major contributor to the rise in truck accidents during the holiday season is the unpredictable weather. Snow, rain, and ice can all make roadways slippery and dangerous. In these conditions, even the most experienced truck drivers can struggle to maintain control of their vehicles.

During the holiday season, these conditions can be even more frequent and dangerous.

• Snow and ice lead to reduced traction and longer braking distances, making it harder for trucks to stop quickly or avoid accidents.
• Foggy weather can drastically reduce visibility, making it difficult for both truck drivers and other motorists to see potential hazards.

While Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations specify commercial motor vehicles to slow their pace in these conditions, many CMV drivers disregard this requirement. If you’re driving during the holidays and the weather is poor, it’s important to be extra vigilant by increasing your following distance, and being especially mindful around semis.

For truck drivers, the FMCSR’s also require their vehicles to be properly maintained and equipped for winter weather. Again, however, some drivers do not do everything that is required. This creates even more hazards to be aware of as you encounter these vehicles on the road.

Fatigue and Long Hours of Operation

During the holidays, truck drivers are often under pressure to meet delivery deadlines and keep up with the increased demand for goods. This pressure can lead to extended hours on the road, sometimes pushing drivers past their limits. Fatigue is a significant factor in many truck accidents, especially during times of high demand.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration sets regulations to prevent fatigued driving, but even with these rules in place, truck drivers may still push themselves to work longer hours, especially during the busy holiday season. Fatigued driving can also slow reaction times, impair decision-making, and increase the likelihood of mistakes.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents During the Holidays

There are several factors that contribute to truck accidents during the holiday season. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted driving: With the increase in traffic, drivers may become distracted by their phones, passengers, or other in-vehicle distractions.
• Speeding: To meet deadlines, truck drivers might feel pressured to speed, especially when roads are clear or when they are running late.
• Improper vehicle maintenance: Trucks that aren’t well-maintained can develop mechanical issues that lead to accidents, such as brake failures or tire blowouts.
• Impaired driving: Some drivers may take risks during the holidays by driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which greatly impairs their ability to react in time.

Stay Safe on the Road During the Holidays

• Plan your trips carefully: If possible, avoid traveling during peak times when traffic is heavier. If you must travel, try to plan your route to avoid high-traffic areas.
• Check the weather: Always check the weather forecast before hitting the road so you can prepare for any adverse conditions.
• Take rest breaks: Fatigue is a major factor in accidents, so make sure to take regular breaks to stay alert.
• Maintain your vehicle: Ensure that your vehicle is in good working condition. Check the brakes, tires, and lights before any long trips.

The Importance of Legal Help After a Truck Accident

If you or a loved one is involved in a truck accident during the holiday season, it’s important to understand your rights and seek legal help. Truck accident cases can be complex, as they often involve multiple parties including trucking companies, drivers, and fleet insurance companies. Having an experienced truck accident attorney by your side can help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

So long as they are retained early in the process, truck accident lawyers can investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, gather evidence, and work with experts to build a stronger case. They will fight to hold responsible parties accountable for their actions, and work to secure a fair settlement for your short and long-term injuries.

Protect Yourself and Your Family This Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time to relax and enjoy the company of friends and family, not to worry about the risks of truck accidents. By understanding the factors that contribute to these accidents, you can take steps to protect yourself while on the road. Be aware of the risks, drive cautiously, and always make safe driving a priority.

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident that wasn’t your fault, don’t hesitate to seek help. We are experienced in negotiating with trucking insurance companies to get you the compensation you need to move on. Call Arthur Law Firm right away (419) 782-9881 to discuss your case and find out how we can assist you in getting the fair settlement you deserve.