Road Traffic Accidents: When Are the Busiest Days on Roads?

An accident can happen at any time and to anyone. Although we are trained to drive defensively, it is impossible to completely avoid the potential for an accident. According to statistics, there are approximately 3,200 accidents each day. You have a 4% chance of being involved in an accident each time you get into a vehicle. From fender benders to fatal accidents, the risks are real, but are there certain days when an accident is more likely? What are the busiest days on the roads according to experts?

Weekends

Statistically, Saturday is the busiest day of the week. Generally, people are out and about throughout the day on Saturday as opposed to certain times during the day on a typical weekday. Traffic jams are most prevalent during the morning rush while people are going to work and the evening rush as people try to go home, but Saturdays are unpredictable.

People are running errands they are unable to do during the week and just enjoying a bit of leisure time without having to rush which emphasises the potential for an accident. If you want to have the best chance of avoiding an accident on Saturday, it is best to venture out early in the morning, as most people tend to sleep in.

Fridays

Black Friday is another day when many accidents happen. It is when most people get their holiday shopping done, so be careful if you venture out during this very busy time.

Superstition does not always play a factor in accidents and overcrowded roadways, but for some reason, it does on Friday the 13^th. Not only that, statistics show that 13% more accidents occur on this rare day, so there might be something to this unlucky number. Statistics also concluded that the season in which Friday the 13^th occurs does not matter, so stay off the roads on Friday the 13^th if you want to lower your potential for an accident.

Christmas

A combination of increased traffic, unpredictable weather, and poor driving leads to road accidents in the UK rising notably during the Christmas season. The roads get more dangerous than usual as people travel great distances to see family, shopping excitement blocks metropolitan streets, and festivities cause more drink-driving events. Particularly on rural roads and motorways, black ice, heavy rain, and fog add to dangerous circumstances. Particularly risky are Christmas Eve and Boxing Day as last-minute buyers, holiday visitors, and partygoers all fight for road space.

St. Patrick’s Day

It’s not surprising that more accidents happen on St. Patrick’s Day. As another drinking holiday, people are apt to take more risks and try to drive when they shouldn’t. On St. Patrick’s Day, 35% of all accidents reported involve one or more intoxicated drivers.

New Year’s Day

This one is not a surprise by any means. New Year’s Day is not only a drinking holiday but one that has people driving at all hours of the night. According to studies, New Year’s Day is the most likely day you will have an accident when compared to any other day. With so many people choosing to be on the road at this time, it is best to stay home, especially if you intend to drink.

How a Personal Injury Solicitor can Help

If you require guidance after being in an accident, a personal injury solicitor can help you build your case and claim compensation. We can also help you with information regarding the out-of-pocket expenses that could potentially be involved in your personal injury case or accidents.

At SilverOak Solicitors, our team of experienced personal injury solicitors will evaluate your claim and offer insight into the most effective course of action. Contact us to speak with one of our personal injury experts about your case today.