We can confidently say that we’re all ready for 2020 to come to a close, and that means New Year’s festivities are here! Although this time of year is one of excitement and joy, it also comes with inherent dangers. New Year’s is one of the deadliest holidays of the year. There are a variety of reasons for this statistic, from the countless parties to fireworks and sparklers that light up the winter sky. For many people, the holidays are all about spending quality time with loved ones and celebrating your good fortunes. Often, alcohol will be present.
This should come as no surprise, but New Year’s Eve is one of the booziest holidays of the year. According to statistics, there is only one holiday (Fat Tuesday) where more alcoholic beverages are consumed. On New Year’s Eve, roughly 45% of the population admits to binge drinking.
New Year’s Accident Statistics
The holidays are a time for celebration and cheer but have also been proven most dangerous. To no surprise, the holidays are far less safe than other driving periods throughout the year. This time of year, there is a 34% increase in serious injuries observed, as well as an alarming 38% increase in fatalities. Second to only the Thanksgiving holiday, New Year’s is one of the most dangerous holidays of the year; there is a shocking 95% increase in car accidents on New Year’s Day.
To give you a better understanding of how dangerous travel on New Year’s can be, here are a few accident statistics:
- Approximately 300 people die in drunk driving accidents between Christmas and New Year’s
- 42% of all New Year’s Eve car accidents involve a drunk driver
- Men consume 3.6 drinks during the winter holidays compared to 2.7 by women. These numbers increase to 5.1 drinks and 3.7 drinks, respectfully, on New Year’s Eve
- 3% of men and 16.7% of women admit to black-out drinking on New Year’s Eve
- From 2012 to 2016, 14,472 people died in traffic accidents in December. Of those, 3,995 people died in alcohol-related crashes
These numbers are meant to give you some insight into just how dangerous the roadways can be around the holidays. If you are planning on traveling this holiday season, or if you will be attending a New Year’s Eve party, never drink and drive and encourage your friends to do the same. The key to staying safe and avoiding injury is making smart decisions and planning. With a variety of rideshare services available, there is no excuse for driving while intoxicated.
We know the holidays are a hectic time of year, with all the family gatherings and traveling that takes place. Christmas will have come and gone, and everyone plans their New Year’s celebrations. We love the holidays as much as anyone, but we also understand how dangerous they can be. We want you and your loved ones to ring in 2021 as safely as possible.
If you find yourself the victim of an injury or accident over the New Years holiday, contact us online or by phone at (267) 457-5570 to discuss the specifics of your situation and learn the rights you have to compensation.