December brings holiday lights, family road trips, and — unfortunately — a spike in car accidents across Ventura County, Agoura Hills, and Calabasas. Whether people are rushing to shopping centers, heading out of town, or driving late after celebrations, collisions become more common this time of year.
If you’re wondering “Why are there more car accidents in December in California?” or “What should I do after a holiday road trip crash?”, this guide breaks it all down.
Why Holiday Driving Is More Dangerous in Ventura County
Holiday travel introduces several risk factors:
- Driver fatigue after long days, late-night parties, or extended road trips
- Increased distraction from phones, GPS apps, and holiday stress
- Heavier traffic on US-101, the 23 Freeway, Kanan Road, and Agoura Road
- Poor weather (rain, fog, wet pavement) more common in December
- More impaired driving around holiday gatherings
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, DUI-related collisions rise significantly between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. The CHP “Maximum Enforcement Periods” exist because holiday conditions historically produce more crashes statewide.
California Law: Drivers Must Adjust Their Speed for Conditions
Even if the posted speed limit says 65 mph, drivers must slow down for weather, traffic, and visibility under California Vehicle Code §22350 — the Basic Speed Law.
This means if someone is driving too fast for rainy or foggy December conditions, they can be found negligent, even if they weren’t technically “speeding.”
Other key laws that often apply to holiday crashes:
- Vehicle Code §23123.5 — bans handheld texting while driving
- Vehicle Code §23152 — DUI laws (alcohol or drugs)
- Vehicle Code §21804 — drivers entering a roadway must yield
If another driver violates these rules and injures you, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Most Common Holiday Accidents in Agoura Hills & Calabasas
Rear-end collisions
Happen often near shopping centers like
- The Commons at Calabasas
- Twin Oaks Center
- Agoura Village
Freeway holiday traffic crashes
Especially on:
- US-101 through Agoura Hills and Calabasas
- SR-23 toward Thousand Oaks
Left-turn crashes at night
Poor visibility and holiday stress cause misjudged turns.
Distracted driving accidents
People texting party directions, checking store sales, or typing into GPS apps.
What To Do After a Holiday Road Trip Accident
If you’re injured in a December crash, take these steps:
- Call 911 and get medical help immediately.
- Take photos of both cars, the road, weather, and traffic.
- Exchange info, but avoid discussing fault.
- Get witness names and phone numbers.
- Call a personal injury attorney before speaking to insurance adjusters.
Insurers often try to downplay holiday-related injuries by blaming traffic or weather — but negligent drivers are still responsible.
FAQs
When is it worth it to get a lawyer after a car accident?
It’s worth contacting a lawyer any time you are injured, even if the crash seems minor. Insurance companies often minimize holiday-season injuries or pressure victims into fast, low settlements.
You should especially get a lawyer if:
- You have persistent or delayed pain
- The other driver was speeding, distracted, or DUI
- Your vehicle has moderate damage
- The insurer wants a recorded statement
- You need help getting medical care or proving fault
A lawyer protects your rights, manages the claim, and fights for full compensation while you recover.
Are there more car accidents in California during the holidays?
Yes. Statewide collision data from CHP and OTS confirm significant increases during December travel periods.
Who is at fault in a rain-related accident?
Even in bad weather, drivers must adjust their speed. Under Vehicle Code §22350, the at-fault driver is whichever one drove too fast for conditions.
Should I call a lawyer after a minor car accident?
Yes, if you have ANY injuries. December crashes often involve delayed symptoms due to adrenaline and cold weather.
Can I get compensated if I was partly at fault?
Yes. California follows pure comparative negligence, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you were partially responsible.
Injured in a Holiday Accident? We’re Here to Help.
If you or your loved one was injured in a December crash in Agoura Hills, Calabasas, or Ventura County, the Borhani Law Group is ready to protect your rights and handle the insurance battle for you.
Call (888) 711-4197 or visit borhanilawgroup.com/contact-us for a free case evaluation.
Resources
- California Office of Traffic Safety: https://www.ots.ca.gov/media-and-research/data-and-statistics/
- Caltrans Road Safety Programs: https://dot.ca.gov/programs/safety-programs