Auto accidents in Texas happen once every 58 seconds, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. In 2018, nearly 250,000 people were injured in Texas crashes, with almost 15,000 of those considered serious injuries.
Motor vehicle crashes happen far too frequently. Are the incidents spread evenly throughout the year, or are some days more dangerous than others? To get an answer, we looked at fatal accident statistics for both Texas and the nation as a whole.
The Deadliest Days on the Road
Yes, there are certain days when driving is more dangerous compared to other days. In Texas, TxDOT statistics show that in 2018:
- November 11 was the deadliest day, with 25 people killed in crashes.
- October was the deadliest month, with 332 people killed.
- Alcohol-related crashes occur most frequently between 2 a.m. and 3 a.m.
- More alcohol-related crashes occur on Saturdays than any other day.
- There was at least one death on Texas roads every day of the year.
Nationally, several safety organizations compile statistics. Among the deadliest days to drive are:
- August 2, which is the single deadliest day on American roads, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- St. Patrick’s Day, where the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 30 traffic deaths in 2015 alone.
- July 4th, which topped the IIHS list of “100 Deadliest Days” from 2005 to 2009.
- New Year’s Day, which is the deadliest day for alcohol-related crashes, according to IIHS.
- Memorial Day weekend, when more than 41.5 million Americans take to the roads, according to AAA.
It isn’t surprising to see that the roads are at their most dangerous on holidays when people aren’t working, more people are traveling, and there is extra time for partying.
Summer Is the Most Dangerous Season
A long-term study by The National Center for Biotechnology Information shows that July and August are the deadliest months on American roads. On average, there are 116 deaths every day during those months.
The same study also shows that weekends are more dangerous than weekdays. Further, it shows that most fatalities occur between 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., rush hour in most cities.
What Should We Do in Response?
Should we change our lives around to avoid being on the road during the most dangerous times? That’s not likely. Instead, we should all use a little more caution when we’re behind the wheel, no matter what time of day or what time of year. If you’ve been drinking during your favorite holiday celebration, remember to Uber or Lyft instead of driving home yourself.
Dallas Car Accident Lawyers Helping Injured People
If a motor vehicle accident has left you injured or caused the death of a loved one, please have your situation evaluated by a qualified injury lawyer. You may be entitled to financial compensation for your loss.
The Dallas injury lawyers of Ted B. Lyon & Associates are here to help people like you get through the trauma caused by auto accidents. Call us at 877-Ted-Lyon / 877-833-5966 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation with one of our caring attorneys.
