Cheer and goodwill may be in full swing as the holidays approach, but Canadian roads also see an increase in auto accidents every winter. According to a 2017 safe driving study, collisions increase by 2.5% across the country between December and February. That means drivers need to be more careful.

That doesn’t spell the end of holiday activities or having to avoid driving. Below, our Brampton car accident lawyers explore the reasons why auto accidents increase in winter and how to avoid or reduce them.

If you or someone you know has recently experienced an auto accident in Brampton, here are some tips on what to do next.

Factors That Contribute to Car Accidents During the Holidays

Take a look at some of the most common reasons why auto accidents increase during the holiday season.

1. Drunk Driving: Getting together with loved ones and/or attending parties means increased alcohol consumption and, in turn, increased chances of car accidents. Drunk driving can have serious consequences, including major injuries and death. It can also result in hefty fines, increased insurance costs, jail time, strained relationships, and job loss.
   If you’re attending a party or get-together and think you’ll drink, get a designated driver or taxi to ensure you get home safely.
2. More Cars on the Road:  Between locals shoppers and out-of-towners visiting, there are more vehicles on the road during the holidays. This congestion significantly increases chances of collisions, so give yourself extra time. Our car accident lawyers in Brampton suggest steering clear of busy routes and taking public transit when you can as parking will be harder to find.
3. Holiday-Related Stress: Though this is one of the most loved times of year, holidays can be stressful. Along with scrambling to purchase decorations and presents, many also prepare to see friends and family. Additionally, we often have to drive long distances and navigate unfamiliar roads. This can be overwhelming and add to your stress.
   When driving, the result can be distracted driving, road rage, and speeding. So, if you get behind the wheel feeling overwhelmed, breathe deeply and try to leave your stress behind. This will benefit everyone.
4. Inclement Weather: Snow, sleet, rain, and ice create dangerous driving conditions, and busy holidays can mean travelling in circumstances that aren’t ideal. If you find yourself facing a storm, stay indoors until it passes and stay up to date with changing weather and road conditions. Exercise caution when driving.
5. Improper Vehicle Maintenance: Not that anyone would but, for the record, never choose buying presents over spending money on keeping your car in working order. The results can obviously be disastrous.

No one anticipates being in a car crash during the holidays, but it happens every year. Hopefully, this blog will help prevent these situations from occurring. If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident because of another driver’s negligence, there’s no need to pay out of pocket or endure the pain alone. It’s your right to seek fair compensation, and getting in touch with a Brampton car accident lawyer is the way to go about this.