As the holiday season kicks into high gear, the roads in California become busier, and unfortunately, riskier. December is a time for celebrations, shopping trips, and family visits, but it’s also a month that sees a noticeable increase in traffic accidents and tickets. If you’ve found yourself dealing with a traffic ticket or an accident this holiday season, you’re not alone—and we’re here to help.
The Factors Behind Increased December Accidents
Understanding why accidents spike in December can help us all be more cautious. Here are some key reasons:
- Holiday Traffic and Distracted Driving
With more people traveling to visit loved ones or rushing to complete their holiday shopping, the roads are more congested than usual. Distracted driving also spikes as drivers multitask or check their phones while on the move. - Weather Conditions
While California winters are mild compared to other states, rain, fog, and wet roads are common in December. These conditions reduce visibility and traction, leading to an increase in accidents. - Increased Night Driving
With shorter days, more drivers are on the road after dark. Reduced visibility at night increases the likelihood of collisions. - Alcohol-Related Incidents
Holiday parties often involve alcohol, which contributes to a rise in DUI-related accidents. Law enforcement also steps up patrols during this time, leading to an increase in DUI tickets. - Stress and Fatigue
The hustle and bustle of the season leave many drivers stressed or fatigued, impairing reaction times and judgment.
Traffic and Accident Statistics for December
- Higher Accident Rates: According to the National Safety Council (NSC), December sees a significant increase in traffic accidents nationwide, with California cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco reporting particularly high numbers of collisions during the holiday season (NSC Data).
- DUI Arrests: The California Highway Patrol’s annual “Maximum Enforcement Period” during Christmas and New Year’s Eve results in hundreds of DUI arrests. In December 2022 alone, over 1,000 DUI arrests were made in California (CHP Data).
- Rain-Related Crashes: The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reports that wet pavement contributes to 70% of weather-related accidents, a common issue in December (FHWA Stats).
Common Types of Tickets and Accidents in December
- Speeding Tickets: Many drivers are in a hurry to reach their destinations, leading to more speeding violations.
- DUI Tickets: Law enforcement cracks down on impaired driving with sobriety checkpoints and increased patrols.
- Rear-End Collisions: Traffic congestion and wet roads often result in more rear-end accidents.
- Failure to Yield Accidents: Distracted or rushed drivers often fail to follow basic traffic rules, leading to accidents.
High-Risk Areas in California
Certain areas in California are more prone to accidents and tickets in December:
- Los Angeles County: High traffic density and holiday shopping areas like Beverly Hills and Santa Monica lead to congestion and collisions.
- Bay Area: Cities like San Francisco and Oakland see increased accidents due to rainy weather and congested holiday travel routes like the Bay Bridge.
- San Diego County: The I-5 and I-15 corridors experience heavy holiday traffic and increased enforcement by CHP.
- Central Valley: Foggy conditions in areas like Fresno and Bakersfield contribute to accidents during December.
How We Can Help
If you’ve received a traffic ticket or been involved in an accident, navigating the legal process can be overwhelming. Our team specializes in helping Californians with:
- Fighting Traffic Tickets: Whether it’s a speeding ticket, a DUI, or a red-light violation, we’ll work to reduce or dismiss your ticket to avoid points on your license and increased insurance premiums. Common tickets we handle include reckless driving, illegal U-turns, running stop signs, and more.
- Accident Representation: If you’ve been involved in a car accident, including those involving rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, we’ll help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for damages, medical bills, and lost wages.
- DUI Defense: If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence, we’ll build a strong defense to protect your rights and minimize the impact on your life.
Don’t Let a Ticket or Accident Ruin Your Holidays
December should be a time of joy, not stress. Whether you’re facing a ticket, a DUI charge, or the aftermath of an accident—including rideshare-related incidents—don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ll handle the legal complexities so you can focus on what matters most this holiday season.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you get back on the road safely and stress-free.
