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Why do traffic accidents increase around the holidays?

November 21, 2020

When you imagine the upcoming holiday season, you’re probably thinking about the gifts you will buy, the time you’ll spend with family and the return of chilly weather and cozy clothes. The last thing you’re probably thinking about is the increased chance of getting into a traffic accident.

But the truth is, traffic accidents in Georgia tend to spike around the holiday season. More cars on the road and drinking and driving are two major factors that add up to more car wrecks.

Know the Statistics

In 2019, the Georgia Department of Public Safety reported that traffic crashes across the state during the Thanksgiving holiday period, which began on Wednesday, November 27 and ended on Sunday, Dec. 1, caused 12 deaths.

The department also reported that Georgia State troopers investigated 556 traffic crashes that resulted in 214 injuries. Also during that time period, 325 people across the state were arrested for driving under the influence.

In addition, 11,735 citations and 16,259 warnings were issued by state troopers, Motor Carrier Compliance Officers, and Capitol Police Officers.

During the 2019 Christmas holiday period, which was shorter by two days, 207 traffic crashes were reported with 102 injuries and eight fatalities.

Prevent Holiday Accidents

With the holiday season fast approaching, it’s important to remember to avoid traveling during peak times and, if you do, remember to follow the speed limit and stay alert. Follow Georgia’s hands-free law and report any drivers you suspect are driving drunk or distracted.

If you are going to be drinking, arrange for someone to pick you up or to spend the night.

Contact an Experienced Attorney

Whether you have been injured in a holiday car accident or issued a traffic citation, don’t wait to seek the help of a skilled attorney. If another driver caused an accident that left you injured, you may be entitled to compensation. Consulting a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after your accident gives you the best possible chances of winning in court.

If you were issued a speeding ticket or citation, seek the help of a traffic ticket attorney. Most people assume that it is best to pay the fee of a traffic ticket and move on, but that’s not always the case. Sometimes, pleading guilty to traffic offenses can result in community service or even jail time.

An attorney who knows what they’re doing can help you prevent that from happening.

Call on The Jackson Law Firm to help with your traffic violation charges or personal injury claim and save yourself a lot of headache this holiday season.

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