The holiday season comes with a significant uptick in car accidents on Georgia’s roads. This period brings about a combination of risk factors that make crashes much more likely all over the state.
Understanding the unique dangers of holiday driving can help you maintain the right amount of caution when you are behind the wheel.
Increased holiday traffic
More people travel during the holidays to visit family and friends, attend parties or shop for gifts. This surge in traffic puts more vehicles on the road, leading to congestion and more accidents. Both the highways and city streets often see a notable rise in vehicles during this time, which increases the likelihood of collisions.
Impaired driving
Holiday celebrations frequently involve festive drinking. Many drivers get behind the wheel after drinking at holiday parties or gatherings, leading to a sharp rise in DUI-related accidents. The combination of alcohol, fatigue and nighttime driving creates a dangerous mix.
Dangerous weather
December and January often bring colder temperatures and increased precipitation to Georgia. Wet or icy roads make driving more hazardous, especially for those who are not accustomed to driving in such conditions. Reduced visibility due to fog or rain further complicates driving, leading to more accidents.
Holiday stress
Stress and fatigue can also contribute to the higher accident rate. Many people feel overwhelmed during the holidays, juggling numerous responsibilities. Fatigue from long hours of travel or late-night celebrations can cause slower reaction times and impaired judgment, leading to more accidents.
A report from the Georgia Department of Public Safety indicates that there were 24 traffic fatalities in the state just in the Christmas and New Year travel periods at the end of 2023. This figure illustrates the high concentration of accidents during the holidays and the need for extra vigilance.
