Memorial Day is, according to many estimates, one of the most dangerous holidays to travel by car. Many people still do it though, because this long weekend is a popular time to get away and celebrate the start of the summer. If you are driving on Memorial Day weekend, you need to be aware of the dangers. If you get into an accident, our Hartford County car accident attorneys may be able to help.
What Makes Memorial Day Dangerous for Driving?
Memorial Day and the holiday weekend can be dangerous for a few reasons. Some potential contributors to auto accidents include:
How crowded the roads are: Many people are traveling during this holiday weekend. Whether people are making long road trips to the beach or just traveling locally for a barbecue or party, this means that roads are going to be more crowded with cars. More cars can mean a higher number of accidents.
Speeding and ignoring traffic signals: Maybe someone is excited about a weekend getaway. Maybe they left the house late and want to make up for lost time on the road. Whatever the excuse may be, speeding is especially common on a holiday like Memorial Day, and that can easily cause an accident. Drivers may also engage in other dangerous behaviors, like running stop signs, on their way to their destinations.
Drunk driving: Sometimes people have a bit of fun at a Memorial Day barbecue and underestimate how impaired they are. If they get behind the wheel they can be a danger to themselves, their passengers, and anyone else on the road.
Driving while drowsy: Some drivers do not realize how dangerous it can be to get behind the wheel when they are getting sleepy. Maybe they had to wake up early for the trip or they just did not get enough sleep before traveling. If they begin to fall asleep behind the wheel, they can easily cause a collision.
What Should I Do If I Get Injured in a Car Accident?
If you get injured in a car accident on Memorial Day weekend, you should take some steps to protect yourself and gather evidence for a potential personal injury lawsuit. If someone else was to blame for the accident and insurance simply does not make up for your injuries and what you have experienced, it may be necessary to pursue damages. We recommend that you:
- Call the police
- Take pictures of the accident scene, damage to your vehicle, and any injuries
- Keep medical bills, repair estimates, and anything else that can show the cost of your car accident
- Get any medical care that you need
- Avoid taking the insurance company’s first settlement offer
- Consider hiring a personal injury attorney
Schedule an Initial Consultation
If you believe that you have a valid personal injury case on your hands, contact the Law Offices of Marc N. Needelman. We can schedule a free consultation and tell you more about your legal options and how our firm can help you and your family.
