As we recently reported on our South Florida Injury Lawyers Blog, the Christmas and New Year’s holiday periods serve as a time where we see an alarming increase in the number of drunk-driving car accidents in Cooper City and elsewhere throughout the state. In 2010, about 40 percent of the accidents we witnessed during this time period were alcohol-related.
The National Safety Council (NSC) recently released its predictions regarding the number of traffic accident fatalities we’re going to see nationwide during this year’s holiday periods. Our Cooper City drunk driving car accident attorneys understand that the holidays are a time to gather and celebrate with friends and family. Time off from work and away from school allows time to re-energize. Unfortunately, our roadways are also overflowing with snowbirds, residents and visitors. The increase in traffic is tough enough to deal with as it is, but add the increased amount of drunk drivers over the holidays and your risks increase.
According to the NSC, the Christmas holiday period starts at 6 p.m. on the 23rd of December and goes through 11:59 p.m. on the 26th of December. The council is predicting that we’re going to see more than 280 traffic accident fatalities during this 3.25-day period. The NSC goes on to predict that another 28,700 individuals will be injured in car crashes during this time.
The number of roadway fatalities during any time of the year could be greatly reduced if all motorists were to wear a seat belt. According to studies, seat belts are more than 40 percent effective in saving lives during car accidents. This information indicates that more than 100 people may potentially be saved in car accidents over this year’s Christmas holiday period because of seat belts. If all motorists were to wear a seat belt during travel, experts conclude that another 75 people could be saved.
The NSC also reports that there are going to be close to 300 people killed in traffic collisions during the New Year’s holiday period. This time period officially begins on Friday, December 30th at 6 p.m. and goes through Monday, January 2nd at 11:59 p.m. In addition to these predicted fatalities, the NSC is estimating that another 29,700 people will require medical attention from injuries resulting from car accidents during this time.
According to the NSC, more than 105 people may be saved in car accidents during this holiday period because of seat belt usage. If all motorists were to wear a seat belt during this time period, the NSC predicts that an additional 75 people could also be saved.
Drivers are asked to be careful on our roadways during the upcoming holidays. Be safe, exercise defensive driving habits and always wear a seat belt. Have a safe and happy holiday!
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Cooper City, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach or the surrounding areas, contact the personal injury lawyers at Freeman, Mallard, Sharp & Gonzalez. Call for a free and confidential appointment to discuss your rights at 1-800-529-2368.
More Blog Entries:
MADD and the NFL Team Up to Prevent Drunk Driving-Related Teen Car Accidents in Hollywood and Elsewhere, South Florida Injury Lawyers Blog, December 9, 2011
Man charged in Fort Lauderdale drunk driving accident that claimed life of Miami Heat dancer, South Florida Injury Lawyers Blog, March 25, 2011