The holidays bring joy, togetherness, and the promise of a fresh start. But unfortunately, they also usher in increased risks on the road. Whether it’s last-minute gift shopping, traveling for family visits, or late-night celebrations to ring in the New Year, the holiday season puts more drivers at risk of accidents.
Picture this scenario: it’s Christmas Day or New Year’s Eve, and you find yourself in a car accident. What happens next? The holidays' chaos, limited resources, and heightened stress can make the situation even more overwhelming. Knowing what steps to take and how to protect your legal rights can make all the difference if the unexpected happens.
Why Are Car Accidents More Common During the Holidays?
1. More Congested Roads
During the holiday season, traffic spikes as people travel to reunite with loved ones, shop for gifts, and attend seasonal events. Even here in Stillwater, whether you’re traveling near Boone Pickens Stadium or navigating Main Street’s busier-than-usual shopping district, the roads can become more chaotic and congested during this time.
2. Increase in Impaired Driving
Christmas and New Year’s are celebrations often fueled by alcohol. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, up to 40% of traffic fatalities during the holiday season involve drunk driving. Impaired judgment and slower reaction times put everyone on the road at risk.
3. Winter Weather Conditions
Oklahoma winters can bring unpredictable weather. Slippery roads and reduced visibility due to rain, sleet, or even snow showers pose additional challenges, especially for drivers who are not used to these conditions.
4. Last-Minute Rushing
The holiday rush can also lead to hurried and reckless driving. Late shoppers, people running behind on holiday gatherings, or drivers racing to meet New Year’s Eve party countdowns may ignore basic safety practices like stopping completely at signals or following posted speed limits.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Holiday Car Accident
If you’re in a car accident on Christmas or New Year’s Day, it can feel disorienting and even frightening. However, following these steps can help you protect your safety and legal rights:
1. Check for Injuries and Call Emergency Services
Your first priority should always be the well-being of everyone involved. Check yourself and passengers for injuries, and if someone is hurt, call 911 for assistance. Emergency resources may be stretched thin on holidays, so it’s essential to report the incident immediately.
2. Move to Safety, If Possible
If your accident is minor and there is no serious damage or injury, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further collisions. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
3. Document the Scene Thoroughly
Use your phone to take photos of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles, skid marks, road conditions, and any traffic signs in the area. If the accident occurs near a popular Stillwater location, like near Tenth Avenue or Perkins Road, including these references in your documentation can help with accuracy.
4. Exchange Information
Get the names, contact numbers, driver’s license numbers, insurance details, and license plate numbers of all parties involved. Be courteous but refrain from taking or assigning blame at the scene.
5. File a Police Report
Reporting the accident to local authorities is important even during the holidays. An official police report can strengthen any insurance or legal claims, especially if disputes about fault arise.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurer to report the accident as soon as possible. Many insurance companies have 24-hour hotlines to assist policyholders in emergencies, even on holidays.
7. Stay Calm and Seek Support
Holidays can heighten emotions, but staying calm is essential. If you feel overwhelmed, consider calling a family member or close friend to help you handle the situation.
How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
Dealing with a car accident is complex enough, but handling one during a holiday can complicate everything, from accessing emergency care to juggling insurance claims. Here’s why hiring a personal injury attorney can make a significant difference:
1. Navigating Holiday-Specific Challenges
With many businesses, including insurance companies and medical providers, closed or operating on reduced hours, getting the resources you need after a holiday accident can be frustrating. An experienced attorney can help you work through timing obstacles and ensure no critical steps are overlooked.
2. Handling Insurance Companies
Insurance companies may try to settle claims quickly during the holidays—but fast settlements are not always fair. A personal injury attorney will ensure that you’re not rushed into accepting an offer that doesn’t cover the true cost of your injuries, vehicle repairs, and other damages.
3. Proving Fault in Complex Incidents
If your accident involves impaired drivers, slippery roads, or multiple vehicles (all common during the holidays), the question of liability can become tricky. An attorney will gather evidence, work with experts, and build a strong case to prove fault.
4. Pursuing Maximum Compensation
From medical expenses to lost wages and emotional distress, a skilled attorney can pursue full compensation for your losses. They will advocate for your rights so that you can focus on recovering.
5. Offering Local Expertise
Working with an attorney familiar with Stillwater and Oklahoma laws gives you the advantage of local knowledge. They understand unique factors, like weather conditions and high-traffic areas around town, that could be relevant to your case.
Stay Proactive and Prepared
One of the best ways to protect yourself during the holidays is to plan ahead. Here are a few tips to stay safe on the road:
- Designate a driver if you plan to drink during celebrations. Ride-sharing services like Uber are great alternatives if your plans require flexibility.
- Monitor weather forecasts and avoid driving in hazardous conditions. If you’re caught in bad weather, reduce your speed and increase your following distance.
- Allow extra travel time to avoid rushing. Staying relaxed behind the wheel improves focus and reduces the risk of accidents.
- Pack a car emergency kit, including a phone charger, water, snacks, and a first-aid kit, especially when traveling long distances.
Oklahoma Car Accident Lawyer
In conclusion, ensuring you are legally and emotionally prepared for a potential holiday car accident can make a significant difference in managing the incident’s fallout. For residents of Stillwater, OK, or individuals experiencing a car accident in the area, you can rely on the legal services offered by Martin, Jean, Jackson, Martin & Peach. Our expertise in personal injury law ensures you are guided expertly through the legal intricacies of holiday accidents. Contact us today at to schedule a consultation and let us support you in navigating your claims seamlessly.