It’s kinda what we already know from experience, but this data from the USA shows the increase in incidents on New Year’s Eve and the following hangover day. Wherever you are this New Year, go steady and have fun, all the best from Insurance Edge.
New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are among the most dangerous times of year to drive, and a new CarInsurance.com analysis pinpoints where drivers face the most significant risk.
The findings are detailed in a new CarInsurance.com report, “Where in the United States is it the most dangerous to drive during New Year’s?”, which analyzes a decade of federal crash fatality data to identify the most dangerous states, counties and hours for holiday travel.
Based on traffic deaths per capita, South Carolina, Mississippi and Louisiana ranked as the most dangerous states for New Year’s Eve driving. At the county level, several Florida counties — including Sarasota and Manatee — topped the list. Florida also recorded the highest overall number of New Year’s Eve traffic fatalities during the study period.
Timing matters as much as location. The analysis found that the most dangerous hour to drive during the New Year’s holiday is between 2 a.m. and 3 a.m., particularly on New Year’s Day, when impaired driving and fatigue are at their peak.
“New Year’s Eve combines late-night travel, alcohol and heavy traffic, which is a dangerous mix,” said Laura Longero, editor-in-chief of CarInsurance.com. “Knowing when and where risk is highest can help drivers make safer choices.”
Alcohol impairment remains a significant factor in holiday crashes, with more than one-third of New Year’s traffic deaths involving an impaired driver, according to federal data. Seat belt use also continues to play a critical role in survivability.
CarInsurance.com urges drivers to avoid overnight driving when possible, plan sober transportation, buckle up and stay alert. Even minor crashes or violations during the holiday season can lead to long-term increases in insurance costs.
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