Every mile traveled in a motor vehicle may increase an individual’s crash risk. Other factors, including where people drive, their personal habits on the road and even when they drive, can also affect their collision risk.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), the most dangerous time to drive is after the sun sets. The nighttime is dangerous due to limited visibility, animal activity and the increased presence of drunk drivers on the road. Those who work second or third-shift jobs may have to drive when it is particularly dangerous to commute. First-shift workers may also be on the road at a time when their crash risk is higher than normal.
Afternoon rush hour is a dangerous time
The NSC recognizes the afternoon rush hour on weeknights as another highly dangerous time to drive. Between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. on weeknights, the possibility of a crash is significantly higher than it is most other times of day.
There are several factors that contribute to this elevated crash risk. Fatigue from a long day at work is one concern. Drivers who are exhausted may have a hard time paying attention to their surroundings. Some of them might even fall asleep at the wheel.
Distraction is another issue. Many people have to finish up the last few work responsibilities during their commute home. They take phone calls or check emails. On the other hand, they may communicate with friends or family about errands or after-work responsibilities.
Then there is the risk of encountering a drunk driver. Professionals who stop off for a drink or two after leaving the office for the day may have a higher blood alcohol concentration than they realize. They might make poor decisions in traffic that lead to crashes.
The overall volume of traffic is another safety concern. With so many drivers headed home at once, the density of motor vehicles on the road contributes to collision risk. Drivers may also have to worry about road rage if there are traffic jams.
Obviously, first-shift professionals can’t simply stay off the road at the end of a workday. However, they can make a point of paying close attention to their surroundings to protect themselves and others.
Learning about the factors that contribute to car crash risk may help people stay safe on the roads. Those involved in car wrecks caused by others may need help as they evaluate their options for compensation and try to hold irresponsible drivers accountable.