When Do Most Auto Accidents Occur in Pennsylvania

It is no surprise considering changes in weather that some months are more dangerous than others to drive. Specific months of the year are notorious for spikes in auto accidents, and therefore injury.

That doesn’t mean that people should be any less vigilant throughout the year. Accidents can always happen and the injuries sustained can be life altering.

According to statistics released by PennDOT, January is the most dangerous month for PA drivers. Closely following January are the months of November, December and February. In other words, late fall and winter are notorious for increased auto accidents.

Why?

There are several factors, and not all have to do with the weather. Of course, ice and snow are a key contributor, but so is lack of light. By late fall, virtually everyone is driving home from work in the dark. Low visibility makes it harder to see road hazards, other traffic, animals (such as deer,) and pedestrians.

Leaves are also to blame. Especially when wet, leaves can be as dangerous as ice and can severely reduce road grip and make it hard to turn, start or stop a car.

Deer can also be culprits. Deer mate (also called rut) during the fall, and they are highly active during these months. While the deer themselves often get hit, they can also cause people to swerve and brake and easily cause multiple vehicle accidents.

With all these additional hazards in mind, the added plague of distracted driving only compounds these issues. Poor weather coupled with distracted driving further reduces reaction time and overall competency on the road.

The injuries sustained in a car accident can include:

• Whiplash
• Traumatic brain injury
• Spine injuries
• Fractured or broken bones

Each of these injuries can come with debilitating, life altering injuries that can permanently impact your ability to lead a normal life, ability to work or affect your mental well being. They can take months and even years of therapy to resolve and regain certain functionality. These injuries can also result in death.

Being hyper vigilant during the winter months is crucial for your safety, whether you are in a car or a pedestrian. Give yourself plenty of time to get where you need to go, be careful in intersections and remove all distractions while walking or driving.

If you find yourself involved in an accident, seek medical attention, document the scene of the accident as best as you can and if possible, speak with witnesses. Lastly, speak with an experienced attorney.

The law office of Murray L. Greenfield & Associates has helped countless clients who have been injured in auto accidents. Call today for a free consultation and an attorney will review the circumstances of your incident and determine if a case can be made.

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we do not get paid until we are able to secure a recovery in your favor.

Wish to discuss a case? Call our offices today for a free consultation.