While perhaps not the most deadly holiday to be on the roads driving, Christmas is one of the times of the year when car accidents occur. Pennsylvania State Police recently provided statistics regarding the matter. This year the holiday spanned from Dec. 21 to the end of the day Dec. 25.
Compared to the numbers in 2011, more deaths, injuries and accidents occurred in 2012. This year there were a total of 1,336 accidents compared to last year’s 509. The car accidents resulted in 315 individuals being hurt compared to 169 in 2011. A total of seven people died this holiday due to car accidents, two more than last year.
Law enforcement arrested or issued citations to individuals for the following infractions:
- Drunk driving
- Speeding
- Seat belt enforcement
- Failing to use child safety seats
It is tragic to suffer a serious injury or lose a loved one at any time of the year. During the Christmas holiday however, when families and loved ones so often gather together, it is that much more tragic. In addition to the initial shock, the loss is likely felt for years to come putting a damper on the usually joyous holiday.
There is of course nothing that can be done to undo the pain and suffering individuals and families feel after being involved in such an incident. It may however be possible to secure monetary damages to compensate for the injuries and loss. Though in many cases an emotionally painful endeavor, most find in the long run that it is worth it.
Source: Montgomery News, “Pennsylvania State Police release holiday accident statistics,” Journal Register News Service, Dec. 27, 2012