The study, by Personal Injury Lawyers at Omega Law Group analyzes data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's FARS (Fatality Analysis Reporting System) from 2017 to 2021, looking geographically at the total fatal accidents on the roads during each of the twelve main US holidays.
The research highlights the average number of fatalities that normally occur per month and per day of the month and compares these figures with the average number of fatalities during each national holiday.
The data also breaks down the most dangerous holiday in each state.
Data by holiday
Memorial Day ranks fourth with an average 112 fatalities, in comparison to the number of fatalities on a regular day in May, averaging at 106, a 5.86 percent increase from an average day in May.
Memorial Day is the most dangerous holiday in five states, including Delaware, Illinois, Nebraska, Ohio, and Vermont.
New Year’s Day is the most dangerous holiday for driving in the US.
Throughout January, there are an average of 2,823 fatalities and an average 91 fatalities per day.
Meanwhile, there are an average 127 fatalities on New Year’s Day (January 1st) alone. This is a 39.91 percent difference in holiday fatalities compared to an average day of the month.
The research shows New Year’s Day is the number one most dangerous holiday for 13 states. These states are Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, South Carolina, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin.
Independence Day is the second most dangerous holiday for driving in the US. An average day in July has around 115 fatalities per day, with a total average of 3,569 across July.
However, data reveals the average number of fatalities occurring on Independence Day (July 4th) is 145, which is a 25.77 percent increase in fatalities compared to an average day in July.
Independence Day is the most dangerous holiday for drivers in five states, including Georgia, Michigan, Missouri, Pennsylvania, and South Dakota.
Juneteenth is the third most dangerous holiday for drivers.
In June, there are an average of 3,460 fatalities during the month and 115 per day, while Juneteenth (June 19th) has an average of 123 fatalities, 6.64 percent more than the average day.
Juneteenth is the most dangerous state for drivers in six states, including Alabama, District of Columbia, Indiana, Nevada, Tennessee, and Utah.
Labor Day ranks in the top five, with an average of 122 fatalities on this day, in comparison to an average of 106 in the month of September.
Labor Day is the most fatal in six states, including Alaska, Iowa, New Hampshire, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
Inauguration Day is the least fatal holiday, with a 22.47 percent decrease in fatalities caused by dangerous driving.
In January, there are normally an average 2,823 fatalities caused by driving, with 91 on the average day of the month. However, on January 20th, there are 71.
President’s Day is the second least fatal holiday for driving incidents. In February, there are an average 2,535 fatalities and 91 on an average day.
However, on President’s Day (17th February), there are an average 75 fatalities, a 17.60 percent decrease.
A spokesperson for Omega Law Group said:
“Driving during a national holiday is always a risk. Increased road traffic as people travel to attend events, visit friends and family, or vacation can lead to congestion, delays, and a higher likelihood of accidents.
“Many holidays involve celebrations where alcohol consumption is common, particularly New Year's Eve, Fourth of July, and Memorial Day. Unfortunately, those who choose to drink and then drive are the ones increasing the risk of accidents.
“Holidays also often go hand in hand with breaks from school or work, which can mean more teenagers or young adults on the roads who may have less driving experience, leading to risky driving and accidents.
“During national holidays, law enforcement agencies often increase patrols and conduct DUI checkpoints to deter dangerous driving behaviors and keep roadways safe.
“It is essential for drivers thinking of traveling during a holiday to avoid peak travel times if possible and never drive while impaired.”
Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's FARS (Fatality Analysis Reporting System)
