Holiday traffic increases the risk of injury or death during a season that should be filled with happiness, love, and peace. Indeed, anytime of year, automobile accidents are the number one cause of death for Americans 5 years of age to 27 years of age.

 

The holiday weekend has already gotten off to a deadly start in Orange County, Florida with three people killed in two separate automobile accidents on state road 520 in East Orange County and on State Road 50 in West Orange County. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the Christmas-New Year holiday season is the deadliest for Florida motorists. Last year, 69 people were killed in 60 motor vehicle accidents statewide. This year could be worse. According to the American Automobile Association, about 3 million people are expected to drive on Florida highways.

 

The staggering loss of life and limb from automobile accidents in America can only be described as a public health crisis. According to the United States Department of Transportation and the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration studies over the last 15 years, motor vehicle accidents account for around 40,000 deaths each year in the U.S. and an additional 3-4 million injuries annually.

When you take to the streets this holiday season, take special care. Make sure your car is in safe operating condition, including especially your brakes and tires. And take your time. You’ll get there when you get there. Being stressed and in a hurry won’t get you where you’re going any sooner and may not get you there at all. From all of us at CGWC, Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, and Season’s Greetings. Have a safe and wonderful holiday.