Car Accident Statistics: Nighttime vs. Daytime Driving

Dangerous driving may play a major factor in the risk of car accidents, especially at certain times of the day.

There are many different factors that contribute to dangerous driving, some of which are beyond a driver’s control. For example, various times of the day can leave drivers more prone to accidents.

There’s no denying that Los Angeles is a fast-paced city.  People are constantly driving throughout LA .

Whether it’s a shorter trip from North Hollywood to Burbank, or longer drive from Glendale to Manhattan Beach, Angelenos seemingly drive all over at various times of the day.

With more cars, there’s more accidents.

The most recent reports from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reveal over 3,500 fatal crashes per year in California, the most of any state. That’s also 1837 more fatal crashes than bordering states like Arizona, Nevada, and Oregon combined. 

Besides a high population and more vehicles, what could increase numbers? Is there a way to decrease the risk of accidents?

Believe it or not, the time of day during which you drive could be a factor in dangerous driving. 

The latest data from the National Safety Council shows that the peak time of day for crashes is between 4 PM and 7:59 PM. This makes sense, considering many drivers are on their way home from a job during rush hour.

An interesting stat from the study shows different numbers between fatal and non-fatal car crashes. 

Non-fatal car crashes are more likely to happen between noon and 8:00 PM, Monday through Friday. However, fatal car crashes are more likely to happen between 4:00 PM and midnight. 

An outlier in the statistics shows that fatal crashes greatly increase Saturday and Sunday mornings between midnight at 4:00 AM.  Your chances of getting into a non-fatal crash during these hours is 1.25 percent, while your chances of getting into a fatal accident increase to 3.25 percent.

Whether it be due to work, school, or some other commitment, the time of day you drive is oftentimes out of your control. However, there are other steps you can take to try preventing accidents.

• Give yourself plenty of time – rushing to a location can increase your chances of making more irrational decisions. Plan to leave early, even if you reach your destination a few minutes before your expected arrival time and dodger dangerous driving.
• Avoid distracted driving – Using your phone to text or other distractions take your eyes off the road. It’s important to stay focused. This can reduce your chances of getting in an accident.
• Wear a seatbelt – it’s illegal to drive without a seatbelt in California. Buckling up is proven to save lives, so make sure any passengers wear their seatbelt, too.
• Avoid speeding – Driving over the speed limit is a frequent cause of dangerous driving. Speeding was a factor in 29% of all traffic fatalities in 2020. Combining seatbelt safety with speed etiquette is helpful in preventing a serious injury or death.

The car accident lawyers at C&B Law Group are prepared to assist you after a dangerous driving car accident results in your personal injury.  Whether you were hit by a car on your way home for work, or had another vehicle rear-end you on a Saturday night out, our firm is ready to take on your accident case.

Car accidents from dangerous driving can result in an extensive number of injuries, including:

• Neck and back pain 
• Neck and back injuries
• Traumatic Brain Injury 
• Whiplash
• Broken bones 
• Cuts and lacerations 
• Internal bleeding 
• Organ damage 
• Scarring and disfigurement 
• Wrongful death 

No matter the time of day, if you were in a car accident and suffered a personal injury due to the neglect of another driver, you deserve proper compensation.

We will try to help you recover damages including, but not limited to:

• Current medical expenses
• Future medical expenses 
• Loss of wages 

Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your car accident injury.