Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog
The holidays are generally about gift giving and making resolutions so this year should be no different. Health and safety are two common things that I think we can all ask for this year. If everyone were to make their New Year’s resolution to be safer on the roadways in 2011, it’s possible that Chicago car accidents would decline thus leading to less fatalities next year.
Though there are many variables that can lead to increased holiday traffic fatalities such as increased volume of traffic, inclement weather, driving under the influence and distracted driving, the most common causes of accidents are as deadly throughout the year as they are during the holidays.Drunk driving, speeding, distracted driving and aggressive driving account for the vast majority of all serious and fatal car accidents in Illinois and elsewhere in the United States.
We all tend to view holidays as a special time of year. Traffic is at a high volume due to the holiday shoppers, holiday parties, and family gatherings that take place this time of year. Drivers tend to get distracted during the holidays because they have so much on their mind and so little time to get everything accomplished successfully by their own standards.
The chances you will be faced with a drinking-and-driving decision are much greater due to the number of holiday parties and family gatherings that we are attending during the holiday season. But the truth is that the holidays mostly exacerbate our poor driving habits. If we drive while talking on the phone, we do it more during the holidays. If we are prone to stopping for happy hour and driving home, we do it more during the holidays. If we speed, tailgate or drive aggressively, we do it more during the holidays.
Stay safe by adding the following possible New Year’s Resolutions for 2011:
-Make notes and plan your schedule far in advance so that you are sure to allow plenty of time to accomplish everything on your to-do list.
-Don’t drive if you have had something alcoholic to drink. You always have other options so resolve to do the right thing.
-Set aside time each week for reflection and relaxation. A little deep breathing never hurt anyone.
-Set a goal to pick up holiday gifts throughout the year by having 80% of your shopping done by Labor Day weekend rather than wait until the last minute. This can help save money with sale purchases as well as provide an opportunity to feel less stressed during the holidays.
-Recognize the dangers of speeding, aggressive driving and distracted driving and vow to do something about your part in contributing to those risks in 2011.
The Illinois personal injury attorneys at Abels and Annes would like to take the opportunity to wish you and your family a safe and prosperous new year. If you need representation in Chicago or the surrounding areas please call for a free consultation at (866) 99-ABELS. There is no fee unless you win.