The period from the Wednesday before Thanksgiving until January 2 is the busiest time for holiday travelers.
Traffic increases significantly during this time as people travel to visit family and friends and attend holiday parties and other events.
Below, we’ll examine the statistics on holiday accidents and discuss tips for keeping yourself and your family safe while traveling this holiday season.
Holiday Travel Statistics in Wyoming
According to the 2018 Wyoming Report on Traffic Crashes, November had the highest number of crashes of any month that year with 1,600. December had nearly 1,300 crashes while January had almost 1,200.
Thanksgiving 2018 had the most crashes of any year since 2014 with 265, and it was also the highest property damage only (PDO) crash total with 234, the Wyoming Report on Traffic Crashes stated. These crashes caused 40 injuries, which tied 2014 and 2015 for the highest total. None of the crashes were fatal, and 2016 was the only year Thanksgiving had fatal crashes with three.
There were 179 crashes on Christmas 2018, causing 30 injuries and no fatalities. There were no fatal crashes on Christmas between 2014 and 2018. On New Year’s, there were 118 crashes in 2018 that included 15 injury crashes causing 23 injuries and one fatal crash causing one fatality.
Safety Tips Before Traveling for the Holidays
One way to reduce your likelihood of being involved in a holiday accident is to avoid traveling during peak travel times. Plan your travel carefully and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.
Be sure to check the weather prior to leaving so you’ll be ready for any inclement weather you might encounter on the road or can decide to delay travel until conditions improve.
Make sure you are well rested before setting out on a long driving trip.
Make sure that you pack properly and that you are prepared for air travel security screening of your bags. Try to give yourself additional time if you’re flying, and consider taking earlier or later flights to avoid larger crowds at airports.
Safety Tips During your Holiday Travel
If you’re taking a road trip this holiday season, make sure that your vehicle has been inspected and maintained. Check your fluid levels, tires, and make sure your brakes are in proper working order. If you anticipate driving on icy or snowy roads, consider using snow tires and carrying chains for heavy snow in mountainous areas.
Remember to take breaks during longer drives to avoid driving while fatigued. Switch drivers periodically if you are traveling with someone else who can drive.
Make sure that you know who you will call if you do encounter some kind of emergency situation on the road. Try to stay on major roads and highways that are usually better maintained and more likely to be patrolled by law enforcement if you need assistance.
Carry basic survival supplies in your car when traveling in the winter. Items like a blanket, non-perishable food, water, a shovel, kitty litter for traction, and others could prove to be very useful.
Contact Olson Personal Injury Lawyers If You Were Injured During your Trip
Olson Personal Injury Lawyers represents people who’ve been hurt in accidents across Wyoming, whether they are residents or just visiting for the holidays. We have experience helping people who’ve been hurt in car accidents, truck accidents, slips and falls, dog bites, and a wide variety of other injury claims that are common during the holidays.
Our knowledgeable Denver car accident attorneys will be ready to review your case when you call us or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
