What No One Tells You About Holiday Events and Car Accidents
December is packed with holiday dinners, office parties, family gatherings, and end-of-year celebrations. It is one of the most festive months in the United States, but it is also one of the most dangerous for drivers. Behind the lights and excitement, holiday events often lead to a rise in car accidents that many people overlook.
Holiday Party Season Means Higher Risk
People rush from work to celebrations, stay out later than usual, and drive in unfamiliar areas. Roads fill with distracted, tired, or stressed drivers, and parking lots stay busy from morning to night. With more rushing, less patience, and heavier traffic, accidents happen more easily, even at low speeds.
Alcohol Plays a Role in More December Accidents
Many holiday events include alcohol. Even small amounts can slow reaction time and affect judgment. Ride share demand increases, and with it comes heavy traffic around restaurants, offices, and event venues. Busy drop-off zones and quick stops create confusion and increase the chances of collisions.
Nighttime Driving Makes Holiday Travel More Dangerous
Most holiday events happen after dark. Reduced visibility, winter weather in many parts of the country, and the general fatigue of the season increase accident risk. Drivers leaving long workdays followed by late-night parties or errands may react more slowly to sudden traffic changes.
Parking Lot Accidents Surge During the Holidays
Office buildings, malls, hotels, and event spaces fill up throughout December. Parking areas become chaotic, with drivers backing out at the same time, cutting across lanes, and searching for spots while distracted. Even minor collisions can lead to injuries that are felt hours or days later.
You Only Have 14 Days to See a Doctor After an Accident
The holiday season makes it easy to delay medical care, but waiting can worsen injuries. Getting checked quickly is essential for your health and your rights. Many symptoms do not appear immediately, and the sooner you act, the better protected you are.
What To Do If You’re Involved in an Accident After a Holiday Event
Stay calm and move to a safe area. Call the police, take photos, and gather information from everyone involved. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine, since symptoms can appear later. After the immediate steps, connect with someone who can guide you through what comes next, especially during a busy month like December.
The Bottom Line
Holiday celebrations bring joy, connection, and well-deserved fun, but they also bring heavier traffic, more nighttime driving, distracted drivers, and an increase in accidents across the United States. If the unexpected happens this holiday season, help is just one call away.
Call the #GoodGuys at 800-800-LAWS for a free consultation. We are here for you 24/7!
