It can be a challenge to navigate roadways during the holidays. With increased traffic, winter weather, and the rush of holiday preparations, road safety becomes more important than ever. AAA estimates over 119 million Americans will travel during the 2024 holiday season, surpassing the record set in 2019.
Understanding current driving trends, safety data, and defensive driving tips can help increase your chances of a safe trip this holiday season.
The Latest Holiday Driving Statistics
Driving during the holidays comes with added risks. In 2022, there were 365 traffic deaths on Christmas Day alone. Factors that may contribute to the increased number of fatalities include higher levels of distraction while driving, lack of sleep, and increased alcohol consumption during holiday festivities.
Drunk driving, in particular, continues to be a major factor in traffic deaths during the holiday season. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that drunk driving deaths in December 2022 were the highest in 15 years.
How Cannabis and Technology Use Affect Holiday Driving
Alcohol isn’t the only factor causing increased accidents during the holiday season. Recent trends, such as the increased use of cannabis, are also influencing road safety.
Cannabis impairment can slow reaction times and affect coordination, increasing the risk of an accident. In states where cannabis is legal, driving under its influence carries the same legal penalties as alcohol-impaired driving. Even if your state — or the one you’re visiting — has access to legal recreational marijuana, you should treat its use the same as alcohol. If you imbibe in cannabis, you need to plan for a sober ride home.
Technology also plays a growing role in driving habits. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), such as lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control, can help reduce accidents during the holidays and beyond. However, overreliance on these systems can lead to complacency.
Drivers should use these tools as aids, not replacements for attention and skill. Consider taking an online driver’s ed course to help freshen your on-the-road knowledge and safe driving skills. This, combined with safety features of modern vehicles, can help you greatly reduce your chances of a traffic accident this holiday season.
Safety Recommendations for 2024 Holiday Driving
Whether you’re heading across the country or just across town this holiday season, there are things you can do to help prevent accidents. To navigate holiday traffic safely this year, it’s essential to follow these current safe driving tips:
Stay Sober
Alcohol and drug impairment are some of the biggest contributors to accidents during the holiday season. If your holiday plans involve drinking or other substances that affect sobriety, plan for a sober ride. Consider using a rideshare app or appoint a designated driver for your group to get you safely home after holiday merriment.
Manage Fatigue
Going to be heading home late from a holiday party? Make sure you are well-rested enough to drive. According to the NHTSA, most drowsy driving accidents happen between midnight and 6 a.m., or in the late afternoon. Make sure you get enough sleep before your holiday plans so you’re alert and awake for the drive.
Avoid Distractions
Distracted driving means you’re taking your eyes off the road and not paying attention to your surroundings. Driving distracted could lead to missing road conditions and causing an accident, such as not noticing a driver in front of you has slowed down or missing changing conditions on the road. Many states even have distracted driving laws, such as Florida's no texting and driving law. Secure your phone, program your GPS, and minimize in-car distractions (like loud music or eating and drinking) before putting your car in gear.
Plan Ahead
Before you start your journey, check the weather at your location and your destination. Avoid traveling during severe conditions, such as snow storms or icy conditions. You can also use navigation apps to monitor traffic and find alternative routes if necessary.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Ensure your car is in top condition before heading to holiday celebrations by checking your brakes, tires, and windshield wipers. You should also stock an emergency kit with essentials like blankets, water, flashlights, and first-aid supplies.
Make Safety Your Priority This Holiday Season
The holidays should be a time of happiness, not tragedy. By following these updated safety tips and adopting responsible driving habits, you can protect yourself, your passengers, and others on the road in 2024.
Plan carefully, stay alert, and embrace safe driving practices to ensure this holiday season is memorable for all the right reasons. Your choices behind the wheel can make a lasting difference — drive safely and spread holiday cheer responsibly.
Updated 12/23/2024