Posted on Wednesday, September 18th, 2024 at 9:00 am
Driving in Provo can be challenging, especially during certain times of the day. Whether commuting to work, dropping off your kids at school, or running errands, understanding the most dangerous time to drive can help you avoid accidents and the severe injuries that often come with a crash. While collisions happen at all hours of the day, data suggests they occur most often during the afternoon rush hour. The available data also shows a surge in crashes around midday, when many people are running errands, and in the morning, when many people drive to work.
The Provo car accident attorneys at London Harker Injury Law have seen the devastating effects of these collisions firsthand and can help you seek fair compensation for your injuries. Let’s explore the specific hours in Provo that show the highest number of accidents so you can be more aware and prepared when you hit the road.
The Most Common Crash Times in Provo
When the state Highway Safety Office looked at when crashes happened most often statewide in one recent year, the most common times when collisions occurred were:
- 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. – 5,578 crashes
- 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. – 4,736 crashes
- 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. – 4,621 crashes
- 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. – 4,179 crashes
- 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. – 3,741 crashes
The Highway Safety Office data also show a spike in accidents from 7-9 a.m. and 12-2 p.m.
The most common times for fatal crashes are fairly similar. Here’s what the data show:
- 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. – 23 fatal crashes
- 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. – 20 fatal crashes
- 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. – 19 fatal crashes
- 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. – 18 fatal crashes
- 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. – 17 fatal crashes
While the available data does not focus on Provo specifically, these figures can still give us some insights into the most dangerous driving times. If you’re on the road in Provo during these periods, take extra precautions to keep yourself safe.
Why Are Crashes More Frequent During These Times?
What are the worst times of the day to drive? While there’s no single reason why car accidents occur, here are some reasons why crashes might happen more often in Provo during these specific periods:
- Rush Hour Traffic (4 p.m. to 6 p.m.): The high volume of vehicles on the road makes rush hour one of the most dangerous times to drive. Frustration from traffic jams, fatigue after a long day, and hurried driving to get home all contribute to more frequent crashes.
- School Dismissal Times (2 p.m. to 4 p.m.): This period coincides with schools letting out for the day, leading to more cars on the road. Parents picking up children, school buses, and teenage drivers add to the traffic.
- Evening Visibility (6 p.m. to 7 p.m.): As the sun sets, visibility decreases, making it harder for drivers to see hazards on the road. This reduced visibility, combined with the continued high traffic volume from the evening rush hour, can lead to more accidents during this time.
- Morning Commute (7 a.m. to 9 a.m.): Similar to the evening rush hour, the morning commute sees a high concentration of vehicles on the road. Drivers may be in a hurry to get to work or school, and the stress of running late can lead to reckless driving behaviors.
- Lunchtime Traffic (12 p.m. to 2 p.m.): During this period, drivers may rush to grab a quick meal or run errands, and the increased congestion can lead to more frequent collisions.
- Nighttime Driving (8 p.m. to 11 p.m.): Fatal crashes are more common during the later evening hours when drivers might be tired or impaired. Darkness also makes it harder to see other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles, increasing the risk of severe accidents.
How To Protect Yourself During Rush Hour and Other Peak Crash Periods
Driving during rush hour and other peak crash periods can be stressful, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself. First, always stay alert and focused on the road. Avoid distractions like texting or adjusting the radio, which distracts your attention from driving. Second, maintain a safe following distance to give yourself enough time to react if the car in front of you suddenly stops. Third, be patient and avoid aggressive driving, even in heavy traffic. Speeding or weaving between lanes only increases your risk of an accident. Finally, try to plan your route ahead of time and consider leaving a little earlier or later to avoid the most dangerous times to drive.
What To Do After an Accident During Peak Crash Periods
Here are the steps you should take after an accident during rush hour or other peak crash periods:
- Seek Medical Attention: See a doctor if you haven’t already, even if you feel fine. Some injuries might not show symptoms immediately, and showing you sought immediate medical attention is crucial for a personal injury claim.
- Report the Accident: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Give them all the necessary details, including where and when the accident occurred. However, avoid saying anything that might indicate you caused the crash, and never agree to give a recorded statement without talking to a lawyer first.
- Document Everything: Keep records of your medical treatment, car repairs, and any other expenses related to the accident. This documentation is vital if you intend to file a claim or seek compensation.
- Consult a Lawyer: Speak with a personal injury lawyer to understand your rights and options. They can guide you through the legal process and help you seek fair compensation.
- Follow-up: Stay in touch with your doctor and follow their advice for recovery. Also, contact your insurance company and lawyer to ensure your claim is moving forward.
Contact Our Provo Car Accident Lawyers Now
A car accident is a traumatic experience no matter when it occurs, but you can lessen its chances by learning the most dangerous time to drive in Provo. If you ever get into a car accident, however, a Provo car accident lawyer at London Harker Injury Law can help you recover the money you need to rebuild your life. Call our law firm today or complete our contact form for a free consultation. We have the legal knowledge and proven track record to answer your questions, explain your legal options, and work with you to help you receive the maximum benefits available.
