Memorial Day is a bittersweet holiday for many, as it commemorates and honors those who have lost their lives fighting in the United States armed forces. However, it also is the beginning of summer for many, celebrated with picnics, barbecues, parades, and fireworks. Unfortunately, this weekend is also one of the most dangerous times of the year for drivers. If you were injured in a Memorial Day car accident, knowing how to proceed is essential to receiving the compensation you’re entitled to. Keep reading to learn more about why the risk increases and discover how a Houston auto accident lawyer can help.
Are Car Crashes More Prevalent During Memorial Day?
Unfortunately, Memorial Day weekend sees the highest number of car crashes than any other holiday weekend annually. This period is measured from 6 p.m. on the Friday before the holiday to 11:59 p.m. on the Monday of Memorial Day. There are anywhere from 300 to 500 auto-related deaths per year, along with minor crashes and those who are seriously injured.
There are several reasons this occurs. As mentioned, this holiday typically signals the start of summer for many. As such, it can be a time to let loose and have fun. However, this increases the number of those who drink and drive, exemplified by the fact that the number of drunk driving fatalities during this period is generally around 10% higher than the national annual average.
As this is a holiday many celebrate, there is an increased number of cars on the road. This naturally leads to an increase in the risk of accidents, as the more people on the road, the greater the chances of a crash are.
How Should I Proceed if I Was in a Memorial Day Car Accident?
If you were involved in a crash during Memorial Day weekend, there are several steps you must take to protect yourself and improve your chances of receiving compensation for any injuries you sustained.
The most important thing you must do if you have not done so already is to seek medical attention for any injuries you sustained. You should not delay care, as this can lead to the defense claiming you did not mitigate damages by failing to receive treatment. Be sure to see your doctor as soon as possible and keep all medical records you receive.
Next, you’ll want to contact an attorney as soon as possible. If you were injured, trying to heal while dealing with unhelpful insurance companies can only increase your stress levels. Letting an attorney handle the complexities of a claim against the negligent party is essential.
When you need help, the Gonzalez Law Group is ready to fight for you. We understand how catastrophic car accidents can be to victims and their families. As such, we will do everything possible to fight for the justice you deserve when you suffer injuries at the hands of a negligent driver. Contact us today to learn more.
