PA personal injury lawyer warns drivers this Memorial Day

Time magazine reports that there are 13% more traffic deaths over Memorial Day weekend compared to a typical non-holiday weekend, making it the second most dangerous holiday in America, after the Fourth of July.

The traditional summer-kick-off, Memorial Day weekend is one of the biggest weekends of the year for road travel. According to AAA, 36.1 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home over the weekend, and 88% will drive. Frustrated drivers eager to get away for the long weekend may be speeding and driving more aggressively. According to a study by the National Coalition for Safer Roads, the number of drivers who ran a red light on Memorial Day weekend last year is 27% higher than compared to the average holiday weekend.

The National Safety Council estimates there will be 382 traffic fatalities during Memorial day weekend this year and 40,900 medically consulted injuries that occur from motor vehicle collisions.

What can you do to arrive at your destination safely? Leave in plenty of time and be sure to obey all speed and traffic laws. Be sure that everyone in your vehicle is wearing a seatbelt. Studies have shown that seat belts are 45% effective and preventing fatalities. Refrain from using cell phones or other electronic devices while driving. Do not drink and drive. Make sure that all children are in age-appropriate safety seats. Expect increased traffic and understand it may take you a bit longer to reach your destination, and exercise caution at all times.

Although Memorial Day marks the beginning of summer celebrations, sadly it may end with too many preventable car and truck accident deaths and injuries. Exercise safety precautions and have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend. If you have been injured in car accident, contact a PA personal injury lawyer at Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys at 855-866-5529.