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The Most Dangerous Times to Drive

Michael Agruss

Written and Reviewed by Michael Agruss

  • Managing Partner and Personal Injury Lawyer at Mike Agruss Law.
  • Over 20 years of experience in Personal Injury.
  • Over 8000+ consumer rights cases settled.
  • Graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law: Juris Doctor, 2004.

As one would expect, the risk of a car accident increases significantly not only during daily rush hours, but also over peak travel times, including the holiday season. Another significant factor, despite being more difficult to anticipate, is the prevalence of drivers who are distracted or may be under the influence. Knowing the safest times (on average) of the day to drive is highly recommended to lower these risks and make the roads safer for all drivers.

It is estimated that the most “dangerous” time of day to drive is between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm, and approximately thirteen driving fatalities occur each day during this time, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. This is when traffic is the heaviest – particularly with those running errands after work or returning home – and drivers are likely to be the most fatigued, even more so than at night. However, drivers should also be aware that, overall, nighttime remains more dangerous than daytime, as fatal car accidents are four times more likely than during the day.

It has also been observed that Saturday may be a particularly dangerous day to drive. Not only does it tend to be the most common day for traveling and running errands, but there is also a much higher prevalence of alcohol-related car accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that 158 traffic-related fatalities occur every Saturday, and a large percentage of these is usually attributed to driving under the influence; the Automotive Association even estimates that 31% of all fatal drunk-driving accidents occur on weekends, and the highest amount of potential drunk drivers are on the road between midnight and 3 am.

As summer draws near, drivers across the country enjoy better weather and visibility, drier roads, and a few extra hours of daylight, but ideal driving weather does not translate to safer driving: fatal car accidents are twice as prevalent during the summer as any other time of the year, and studies have found August to be the most dangerous month for driving.

All drivers should be familiar with the findings and statistics of these studies to collectively lower the risks of serious car accidents year-round. We must take special care during rush hour, on weekends, and throughout the holiday season and develop a greater understanding of the factors which contribute to these accidents; together, we can make the roads safer for us all.

If you’ve been injured contact Chicago car accident attorney Michael Agruss for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.

Lastly, 844 See Mike is not paid attorney’s fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.

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