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The Most Dangerous Time to Drive

12/09/2013

In general, the task of driving can be quite dangerous. It doesn't matter what route you take or which type of vehicle you choose to drive, every time you get behind the wheel, you stand the chance of being involved in an automobile accident. However, there are times when driving and being on the open road can be more hazardous than others. Take a look at the some of the riskiest periods to be traveling.

Saturday

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Saturday is the most dangerous day of the week to be driving. In fact, the NHTSA states that the average number of fatalities on this day is 158. There are various reasons as to why this particular day tends to see the most wrecks. For example, more drivers tend to be out on the weekends. Also, Saturdays seem to produce more drunk drivers, which is a major reason behind automobile accidents.

August

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration believes that more drivers tend to be out during the month of August, as well as for longer periods of time. Summer is a busy season for motorist. Once students are released for summer break, more teenagers will be out on the roads; many motorists will be traveling and taking family vacations, too. The nicer weather conditions usually result in more drivers being on the road, as well as more drivers who have consumed alcohol. When you combine drunk driving with speed and the increased number of drivers on the road, you get a dangerous time to drive. Of course, the entire summer is a time period in which all motorists should be particularly cautious.

Rush Hour

The time frame known as "rush hour" is one of the most dangerous times to be on the road. This period usually takes place between 5 PM and 7 PM and is due to the roads being crowded with drivers who are in a rush to get home from work. However, it's noted that driving between the hours of midnight and 4 AM can also be quite risky. This is again due to the consumption of alcohol and bar patrons traveling in the early hours of the morning.

July 4th

As a whole, August may be considered the most dangerous driving month. However, July 4th is known to be the biggest day to avoid traveling. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, more than 900 people die in Fourth of July car accidents each year. As already stated, the summer months tend to have more drivers on the road, as well as younger or less experienced drivers. However, alcohol and speed each equally factor into the number of collisions that take place on this holiday.

There are several other elements that create dangerous driving periods. For example, holiday weekends, the change in seasons (i.e. fall to winter and the first snow storm), and the tactics taken by a specific driver can all influence whether or not an accident will take place.

Drive with Ease

In order to prevent a wreck from occurring, there are different factors a driver can engage to attempt avoiding danger. These methods include: wearing a seat belt, evading speeding, paying attention to all surroundings, and driving with complete caution. Interestingly enough, most traffic accidents can be avoided. Therefore, make sure to drive with ease, not only this holiday season, but every time you get behind the wheel.

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