The holiday season is a joyful time filled with gatherings, celebrations, and travel. However, increased road traffic, winter weather, and celebratory indulgences can lead to heightened dangers on Texas roads. Our car accident lawyer in Fort Worth sees these incidents’ impact on victims and families.
We understand the challenges that arise with these accidents and are here to help. If you are involved in an accident during the holidays, don’t wait to call for assistance. We also encourage drivers to be aware of their surroundings and remain safe.
Knowing drivers’ biggest mistakes this time of year effectively reduces the likelihood of an accident. Here, you will find the most common errors and how to avoid them.
1. Driving While Distracted
The holiday season is packed with distractions—from GPS directions to phone calls and texts with loved ones coordinating plans. In Texas, distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents, claiming hundreds of lives each year.
Texas law prohibits texting while driving; fines can reach up to $200 for repeat offenses. If you’re tempted to use your phone while driving, remember that a single distraction can lead to a lifetime of regret.
If you’ve been involved in a collision due to another driver’s distraction, a car accident lawyer in Fort Worth can help you navigate your options.
2. Speeding to Beat the Holiday Rush
Everyone wants to reach their destination quickly, but speeding is dangerous on holiday roads. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), speeding contributed to nearly 30% of all fatal crashes in 2022.
Holiday schedules often encourage rushed behavior, but speeding drastically reduces your reaction time and can lead to severe, sometimes fatal, accidents.
Speed limits are strictly enforced in Fort Worth and across Texas, especially during high-traffic seasons. For anyone injured due to a speeding driver, seeking help from a Fort Worth car wreck attorney can be essential to pursuing fair compensation.
3. Not Adjusting for Weather Conditions
Although Texas doesn’t typically see much snow, rainy or foggy conditions can create slick roads and limit visibility, particularly during winter. In 2022, adverse weather contributed to over 20,000 car crashes in Texas.
Drivers should reduce their speed and increase following distance when the weather takes a turn. Failing to do so puts you and others at risk, especially during high travel times.
If another driver’s failure to adjust for weather conditions causes an accident, contacting an auto accident lawyer in Fort Worth, Texas, can help protect your rights.
4. Driving While Fatigued
Late nights, long road trips, and packed schedules are common during the holidays, making drowsy driving a significant risk. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that drowsy driving causes about 91,000 crashes annually, resulting in nearly 800 deaths nationwide.
Texas law doesn’t penalize drowsy driving directly, but if an accident occurs due to a fatigued driver, they can be held liable for damages. To avoid fatigue, plan regular rest stops and avoid driving during your usual sleep hours. Victims of drowsy driving accidents should seek help from a top-rated auto collision attorney in Fort Worth to explore their legal options.
5. Underestimating the Impact of Alcohol
Holiday festivities often involve alcohol, and unfortunately, this increases the risk of impaired driving. In Texas, it’s illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. During the 2021 holiday season, Texas saw over 1,000 DUI-related crashes. Despite widespread warnings, many drivers still underestimate the impact of even a small amount of alcohol.
If you plan to drink, arrange for a designated driver or use a rideshare service. If you’ve been injured in a collision with an impaired driver, an experienced car accident lawyer near me can provide the legal support you need.
6. Improperly Securing Holiday Cargo
Holiday road trips often mean packing gifts, luggage, and even a Christmas tree on the roof. However, unsecured cargo is a hidden hazard that can lead to devastating accidents. According to the AAA Foundation, over 500 crashes a year are caused by objects falling from vehicles. Texas law requires that all loads be properly secured to prevent them from becoming road hazards.
If carrying cargo, use sturdy straps and double-check everything before hitting the road. If you’re involved in an accident caused by unsecured cargo, consulting a top-rated auto collision attorney in Fort Worth can help you understand your rights.
7. Following Too Closely
Heavy holiday traffic often leads to “tailgating,” significantly increasing the risk of rear-end collisions. In Texas, rear-end accidents are among the most common types of crashes, accounting for thousands of injuries every year. Texas law requires that drivers maintain a safe following distance to avoid these kinds of collisions.
When roads are congested, resist the urge to follow closely, as sudden stops can lead to major accidents. A Fort Worth car wreck attorney can help assess liability and pursue fair compensation if you’re involved in a rear-end accident.
Stay Safe and Enjoy the Holidays
Holiday driving doesn’t have to be dangerous but requires a few extra precautions. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can reduce the risk of accidents and help make Texas roads safer for everyone this season.
Should you find yourself in an unfortunate accident, a knowledgeable car accident lawyer in Fort Worth can guide you through the process, ensuring your rights are protected and helping you secure the compensation you deserve.
Whether for a minor collision or a major accident, having a reliable legal advocate by your side can make all the difference. This holiday season, let’s keep Texas roads safe by driving responsibly and remembering these tips.
