More Californians crash their cars on December 15 than any other day of the year, according to an Allstate Insurance Company review of its California auto insurance claims over the past four years. The number of accident claims on December 15 jumps 23 percent compared to the daily average during the rest of the year.
“This spike in accidents could be related to weather, holiday shopping, travel or other distractions,” says Brenda Soto Bryan, Allstate agency owner in Long Beach. “What’s important for drivers is that on December 15, as well as every day of the year, we must stay focused while at the wheel, whether on the highway or in the driveway.”
Crunching the numbers on its California car accident claims, Allstate found that the daily average number involving its policyholders during the past four years is 435. On December 15 that number jumps to 539. The fourth worst day of the year is just three days later. On December 18, the average number of claims is 523. According to Allstate, the top five days for collision claims in California are: December 15, February14, October 13, December 18 and September 5.
Allstate is asking California drivers to use December 15 as an opportunity to consider three simple safe driving tips:
• Eliminate Distractions: Cell phones, channel-changing and shifting packages are all common distractions that can take our minds off our driving. Turn off the phone, place packages in the trunk and make your listening choice before putting the car in gear.
• Drive According to Conditions Rain, snow, high winds, and even bright sunshine can all affect driving. Allow space between you and the nearest vehicle, slow down in congested areas and understand that another driver may be distracted— so drive defensively.
• Don’t Drink and Drive Holiday cheer has no place behind the wheel. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reminds drivers to keep the party off the road. Plan ahead and designate a sober driver, call a cab or use public transportation if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
