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It’s 5:30 p.m. on a Friday. You’ve just finished a long week of work and are eager to get home. The roads are packed with other commuters, each of them just as ready to leave the office behind. The traffic is heavier than usual, but it’s moving! Until suddenly, there’s a flash of brake lights. A car slams into you from behind. The impact is jarring, and before you know it, you’re caught in a crash that changes everything.
For most of us in Bryan, College Station, and Brazos County, driving is part of daily life. But certain times, like evening rush hour, the late-night hours, or holiday weekends, bring heightened risks that could leave you facing serious injury, medical bills, and lost wages.
Scott Scherr at The Payne Law Group knows that car accidents can happen in an instant. Understanding when accidents are most likely to occur is crucial. But if you’re already dealing with the aftermath, we’re here to help guide you through the process and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Dangerous Times of Day
Traffic accidents can happen at any hour, but some parts of the day carry a greater risk:
- Evening Hours: In 2022, Texas crash data showed elevated accident rates between 4:00 p.m. and 7:59 p.m., which aligns with evening commutes and increased roadway congestion.
- Late-night and Early-morning: These crashes often involve alcohol. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), drivers killed in crashes between midnight and 3 a.m. are significantly more likely to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher than those killed during daytime hours.
Riskier Days of the Week
Crash frequency also varies by day:
- Friday and Saturday Nights: These nights often see more serious accidents, especially when alcohol or fatigue is involved. Although statewide crash data by day varies year to year, weekends consistently report higher crash counts in Texas.
- Weekday Rush Hours: (especially 7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m.) also pose risks due to heavy traffic, hurried drivers, and more complex intersections.
High-Risk Times of Year
Certain seasons and holidays bring an increase in traffic volume and risky driving behavior:
- Major Holidays: Including New Year’s, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, have historically been associated with higher numbers of fatal crashes—often involving alcohol.
- Winter and Spring Weather: Rain, fog, and ice are known to increase the risk of crashes, especially on rural roads and farm-to-market routes that are common in Brazos County.
Tips to Reduce Your Risk
Even during high-risk times, you can take steps to stay safer on the road:
- Keep your vehicle well-maintained by checking brakes, lights, and tires regularly.
- Always wear your seat belt, and make sure passengers do the same.
- Avoid distractions like phones or in-car devices.
- Slow down and increase following distance in bad weather or at night.
- Allow extra time for travel during peak hours or holidays.
After an Accident, Legal Help Matters
Even careful drivers can be injured by the negligence of others. If you’ve been hurt in a crash in Bryan, College Station, or anywhere in Brazos County, it’s important to speak with an attorney early. At The Payne Law Group, Scott Scherr works closely with accident victims to:
- Investigate the cause of the crash
- Collect evidence and witness statements
- Handle insurance claims and negotiations
- Pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
Contact Scott Scherr at The Payne Law Group Today
Car accidents can happen at any time, but understanding when and why they’re most likely to occur helps you stay alert and make safer decisions on the road. Whether it’s during rush hour, late at night, or over a holiday weekend, knowing the risks can help you prevent accidents before they happen.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash in Bryan, College Station, or Brazos County, don’t wait to seek help. Scott Scherr at The Payne Law Group is here to fight for your rights, investigate the details of your accident, and help you get the compensation you need to recover. From medical bills to emotional distress, we’ll work tirelessly to ensure you’re not left struggling. Contact us today for a free consultation.