Driving isn't always safe -- some days and times are downright dangerous. With heavy traffic, unpredictable weather and drivers making reckless decisions, the risk of accidents spikes when you least expect it. But what if you could?
Malloy Law Offices, a personal injury law firm, recently conducted a study to determine the most dangerous days and time periods to drive.
The study examined road crash reports from the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, focusing on car accidents in 2021 and 2022. The analysis totaled accident numbers from each month, day, time of day, and road conditions, and then calculated the averages for each day and time period.
In the end, the weekend and evening hours emerged as the most worst times to be on the road.
"The data clearly shows that certain days and times are riskier for drivers," Seann Malloy, a personal injury lawyer at Malloy Law Offices, said in a statement. "I strongly advise drivers to stay alert on weekends, especially in the evening, when fatigue and impaired driving are common."
The study found that Saturday had the highest average number of accidents, with 6,893 reported in 2021-2022. The study suggested this is likely due to increased weekend nightlife and social activities, where more drivers are on the road. Late-night driving and alcohol impairment can also be contributing factors.
Friday ranks second with 6,201 accidents. As the workweek ends, people often travel for social events or to relax, increasing the number of vehicles on the road, leading to more congestion.
Sunday comes in third with 6,165 accidents. Longer travel times are common on Sundays as people return home after weekend trips. The study suggests this can lead to driver fatigue and more accidents, especially in the afternoon when drivers are tired after taking part in weekend activities.
Top 5 Most Dangerous Days to Drive
Here are the days of the week with the highest average number of accidents:
1. Saturday – 6,893 accidents
2. Friday – 6,201 accidents
3. Sunday – 6,165 accidents
4. Thursday – 5,287 accidents
5. Monday – 5,092 accidents
The data also revealed the most dangerous time frames to drive. The highest number of accidents, an average of 6,931, occurred between 6 p.m. and 8:59 p.m., according to the study. This is during evening rush hour, when roads are crowded with drivers returning home from work. Many drivers are likely tired after a long day, which can affect their focus, while poor visibility at this time frame can make it harder to see dangers on the road.
The second most dangerous time to drive is between 9 p.m. and midnight, which recorded 6,257 accidents. Not only does fatigue become more of an issue as the night goes on, but there's also the problem of reduced visibility and more drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which could contribute to the higher accident rate.
The afternoon rush from 3 p.m. to 5:59 p.m. saw 5,952 average accidents and is the third most dangerous time to drive. With heavy traffic as people head home from work or school, the sun can also be low in the sky, creating a glare that makes it harder to see clearly.
Top 5 Most Dangerous Time Frames to Drive
Here are the time periods with the highest average number of accidents:
1. 6 p.m. to 8:59 p.m. – 6,931 accidents
2. 9 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. – 6,257 accidents
3. 3 p.m. to 5:59 p.m. – 5,952 accidents
4. Noon to 2:59 p.m. – 4,733 accidents
5. Midnight to 2:59 a.m. – 4,713 accidents
"Understanding these patterns can help drivers plan their trips," Malloy said. "It's a good idea to avoid driving at peak times. If you must drive, ensure that you are well rested before you take the wheel. These simple actions can reduce the risk of accidents."