With more cars on the road in the summer, the risk of getting involved in a crash goes up. Busy roads equal more auto accidents in Bucks County, across Pennsylvania, and nationwide. Other factors contribute to the increase in warm weather wrecks, too. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the likelihood of suffering injuries in a crash is higher during the summer than at other times.
Knowing why summertime collisions occur and what to do if you are hurt in one can ensure you get the help and support you need after a Bucks County crash. Read on to learn more.
Why Are There More Auto Accidents in the Summer?
There are many theories about the factors that contribute to summertime car accidents. In truth, there are usually several reasons why any accident occurs. With more traffic on the roads, even a minor mistake can quickly lead to a crash.
Some of the reasons behind the increase in auto accidents when the weather warms up include:
- More travelers contribute to increased road congestion.
- Young, inexperienced teen drivers are out of school and on the roads.
- Drivers are more likely to make risky decisions in good weather.
- There are three summertime holiday weekends.
- Warm weather brings more social events where alcohol is served.
- Rain contributes to more accidents than snow or ice.
- Vacationers and other visitors are not familiar with Bucks County roads.
- Drivers must share the roads with more pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists.
- There is an increase in road construction during the summer.
- Outside activities can contribute to dehydration, drowsiness, and driver fatigue.
- Heat can affect some car components, causing mechanical failures.
Summer Holiday Weekends Increase the Risk of an Accident
The summer months bring three holidays often celebrated with trips to the lake, camping, barbecues, drinking alcohol, and spending time outside with family and friends. Two of these holidays—Memorial Day and Labor Day—always fall on a Monday and usually involve a full weekend of celebrations. Independence Day may be only a one-day celebration, depending on the year.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), June was the single deadliest month in 2019. That month, there were 111 deaths on Pennsylvania roads. This was 10.5 percent of all fatalities that year. Considering May through August, there were 40,183 crashes in 2019. Almost 7,000 of them occurred on a holiday weekend.
Memorial Day weekend had the most crashes of the 2019 summer holidays, with 2,939. However, Labor Day weekend had significantly more fatalities. The data shows:
- Memorial Day Weekend: 2,939 collisions, 27 fatalities
- Independence Day: 1,151 crashes, 18 deaths
- Labor Day Weekend: 2,767 accidents, 40 fatalities
It is noteworthy that July 4th did not fall on a weekend in 2019, so the statistics consider the weekdays before and after the holiday.
Damages You Can Recover in a Bucks County Car Accident Case
If you suffer injuries in a Bucks County crash this summer, prioritize your health. Get care right away and continue your treatment plan as your doctor advises. If you are not sure you were hurt but have pain, swelling, or other symptoms, it is a good idea to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Depending on the severity of your injuries and other factors, you may be able to build a case against the driver who caused your crash and hold them legally responsible for damages, including:
- Medical bills
- Future treatment and care costs
- Lost income, current and future
- Related expenses
- Pain and suffering losses
- Mental anguish
- Vehicle repair costs
A Car Accident Lawyer in Bucks County Can Help If You Were Hurt
Once your injuries are stable and you have a good idea about your prognosis, a car accident attorney in Bucks County can help you understand your rights. They will evaluate your case and determine your options for pursuing compensation based on the unique details of what happened, the insurance coverage available, the applicable laws, and other factors.
If you need to pursue compensation in a fault-based insurance claim or lawsuit, they may be able to manage this process for you. Most personal injury law firms provide representation with no upfront fees or other expenses. They only charge fees if they recover compensation for you in your case.
Connect with Cordisco & Saile LLC About Your Options for Free Today
You can speak with a Cordisco & Saile LLC team member for free today. If you were hurt, we will assess your case and explain your next steps to recover compensation. Our auto accident lawyer in Bucks County can handle your claim or lawsuit while you focus on healing from your injuries. Call us today at (215) 642-2335 to learn more.
