Memorial Day Car Accidents

For many, Memorial Day is seen as a chance to escape. People from all over the country take advantage of the three-day weekend by going to barbecues, taking vacations, and celebrating with friends and family. Unfortunately, this holiday is also known for irresponsible and reckless behavior. Memorial Day is also associated with countless deaths and injuries caused by car accidents. According to recent estimates, this one could be the most dangerous in five years.

If you have been hurt in a car crash, it is likely that your injuries were caused by another person. To find out how you can seek compensation in court, contact our lawyers at Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. at (312) 236-2900.

Memorial Day Weekend Car Accidents Are Deadly

Without a doubt, Memorial Day weekend is one of the deadliest times of the year. This holiday marks the unofficial start of summer, a season known for traveling and living life carefree. During this time, more cars are on the road when compared to a typical weekend. This increase in car volume can cause major traffic jams. When thousands of cars are moving in close proximity to one another, they tend to collide. Driving under the influence also plays a significant role in roadway fatalities.

In years past, the National Safety Council (NSC) has estimated more than 400 people could die on US roadways over Memorial Day Weekend, reporting 453 actual deaths reported in 2019, compared to the estimated 380. The NSC suggests drivers prepare for the drive, drive without distractions, slow down, designate a sober driver and to buckle up for their trips.

Estimates for Memorial Day 2017

While everyone hopes that roads are getting safer, they are actually more dangerous than ever. After analyzing trends in injuries and deaths caused by car accidents, the NSC believes that as many as 409 people will be killed this Memorial Day. This is the highest estimate since 2012, and 12 percent higher than the average number of fatalities that have occurred every year from 2010 to 2015. It is also believed that over 47,000 people may be seriously injured in car accidents that occur from May 26th to May 29th.

To experts, this increased estimate is no surprise. Annual car accident fatalities in America have been rising for the past few years. The National Security Council claims that car accident deaths overall have increased by 14 percent since 2014, a jump that has not been seen since 1964.

How to Avoid a Collision

There are dozens of safety measures that can be taken to avoid being involved in a car accident. Tips for staying safe on the roads this Memorial Day weekend include, but are not limited to:

• Wear a seat belt, even if you are just driving down the road.
• If you are going out for a night on the town, assign a designated driver. If this is not an option, ensure you have access to a rideshare program, such as Uber.
• Be sure to get enough rest. Sleep deprivation can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence.
• Make sure your children are using safety seats. If your child weighs less than 80 pounds and is younger than eight years old, they need to be secured in a booster seat or car seat.
• If you have a teenage child, do not let them drive around with their friends. If staying home is not an option, make sure an adult goes along for the ride
• Avoid talking on your cell phone, even when it is connected to your car through Bluetooth.

Seeking Justice for Your Injuries

According to the Department of Transportation, summer is the most dangerous season when it comes to getting behind the wheel. While winter presents certain dangers, such as icy roads and low visibility, summer is a time when people are out and about. It also involves vacations and increased alcohol consumption. On Memorial Day weekend, and every other weekend, it is important to stay vigilant. The best way to avoid becoming part of a statistic is to watch out for unsafe drivers.

If you have already been hurt in a car accident, it is likely that you are struggling to keep up with your finances. Between medical bills and lost work wages, you may not know how you will survive. With the help of the attorneys at Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C., you can gain the compensation you deserve. They will guide you through the process of filing a personal injury lawsuit.

Our car accident attorneys serve clients throughout the Chicago area, including Aurora, Elgin, Hinsdale, Joliet, Naperville, and Waukegan. If you would like to take action, or if you have questions about your case, call (312) 236-2900 today.