December is a busy month for many people in Alabama. The kids have holiday programs at school, party invites are on the increase and there’s lots of shopping to be done. This means people spend lots of time going back and forth in their cars. All this extra activity means drivers are more likely to get involved in an accident. A vehicle accident attorney will tell you the same thing.

Unsurprisingly, the University of Alabama Center for Advanced Public Safety found that the days before Christmas were particularly dangerous. Researchers analyzed ten years of car crash data for the days surrounding Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. The study found that heavy traffic during all three holiday periods can increase the chances of vehicular accidents.

However, in 2012, the six-day period including Christmas had 18 percent more accidents than the Thanksgiving period. When compared to the days around New Year’s Day, Christmas had 27 percent more accidents. There was less traffic on the actual holidays, so traveling was generally safest then. On another positive note, the study found that initiatives designed to reduce impaired driving around New Year’s Eve were effective.

If the statistics presented above made you think twice, keep reading to learn more about the dangers of driving around Christmas. As is the case year-round, most accidents can be prevented.

Why Alabama Accident Lawyers See So Many Accident Victims After Christmas

A number of factors lead to an increase in vehicle accidents in the days before Christmas. These include:

• Added distractions
• More traffic
• Increased demands on time
• Excessive alcohol consumption

As Christmas approaches, Alabama residents rush to make last minute purchases and they spend more time on the road. Traffic is a lot heavier and people have even more things than usual on their mind. They may be worrying about family gatherings, staff parties, or how they’ll afford everything on their shopping list. Then, there are the usual distractions like cellphones, GPS devices, the radio and the kids in the car. There may also be people in town who aren’t familiar with the roads or local traffic regulations. All this is compounded by drivers who get behind the wheel even when they’ve had too much to drink.

It’s easy to see why so many accidents occur during what should be a time of merriment. Accidents caused by negligent drivers often lead to head and neck injuries, back injuries, broken bones, and lacerations. Some injuries are so serious that they result in death. While you don’t have the power to prevent all accidents, you can ensure that you aren’t responsible for any. Be sure to exercise greater caution as you make your way around the state. You should also be on the lookout for drivers who appear reckless or impaired. Remember, many motorists will be distracted, fatigued or rushed so you need to plan accordingly. Of course, you may find yourself in a situation where you can’t avoid an accident. If someone crashes into you or forces you off the road, you should seek compensation for your injuries.

Damages You Can Seek After a Car Accident

You’ll stand a better chance of getting full compensation if you work with a personal injury attorney in Montgomery, AL. When you have a lawyer, insurance companies know you are serious. They are more likely to make you a fair settlement offer. Some of the things for which you can get compensation include:

• Property damage – You’ll need to repair or replace your vehicle. You can also recover losses relating to towing your car, getting a rental, and replacing damaged items that were in the car.
• Medical expenses – These can include medical consultations, physical therapy, assistive devices, and medication. You should claim for past, present, and future costs associated with your holiday accident.
• Lost wages – You may temporarily or permanently lose your earning capacity because of the accident. This can be due to mobility challenges, time spent in hospital or other factors. Your past earnings, occupation, age, and experience will determine how much you can get.
• Pain and suffering – You have the right to seek damages for mental and physical distress caused by the crash. Compensation will be based partly on the type of injury you suffered and your prognosis for future pain. The more serious the injury, the more you’ll be able to claim.

Contact a Skilled Vehicle Accident Attorney at The Vance Law Firm

If you get involved in a car accident in Alabama, reach out to The Vance Law Firm. We have lots of experience in helping people who suffer injuries. We’ll answer your questions and work hard to get you the compensation you deserve. Call us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced vehicle accident attorney!