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Every time you get behind the wheel, the risk of an accident is there. But did you know that certain times of the day and year are far deadlier than others? Traffic patterns, impaired driving, and driver fatigue all contribute to major spikes in roadway fatalities, putting motorists at an even greater risk during specific hours and months.
In 2023 alone, 40,990 people lost their lives in motor vehicle crashes across the U.S. While this marks a 3.6% decrease from 2022, when 42,514 fatalities were recorded, certain periods continue to see a disproportionate number of accidents. Peak traffic hours, summer holiday weekends, and late-night driving all contribute to increased dangers on the road.
At Farmer & Morris, we’ve analyzed national traffic data to highlight the deadliest times to drive, the key factors behind these crashes, and how drivers can reduce their risk. By understanding when the roads are most dangerous, motorists can take proactive steps to stay safe.
The Worst Times of Day to Drive
Not all hours on the road are equally dangerous. Data shows that certain time periods are significantly more hazardous than others, largely due to traffic volume, driver fatigue, and impaired driving.
- 5 PM – 7:59 PM: The most dangerous time to be on the road, this window sees a high volume of crashes due to rush-hour congestion and tired drivers making their way home from work.
- 8 PM – 11:59 PM (June, July, and August): Summer nights bring a sharp increase in drunk driving, making this a high-risk period for fatal crashes.
- Midnight – 2:59 AM: This is one of the most dangerous late-night windows, with alcohol-impaired drivers playing a major role in crashes.
On the other hand, the safest time to be on the road is between 8 AM and 11:59 AM, when accident rates are at their lowest. With 66% of Americans reportedly taking road trips, you should consider the best and worst times of day to be on the road.
Why Are Some Months Deadlier Than Others?
While crashes happen year-round, data shows that May through October are the most dangerous months for drivers. Over these six months, 24,650 fatalities occurred, making up more than half of all traffic deaths for the year.
Several factors contributed to the spike in crashes during this period:
- Holiday travel: The summer months include high-traffic holiday weekends, such as Memorial Day, the 4th of July, and Labor Day, all of which see increased drunk-driving incidents.
- Recreational driving: With more people taking vacations and road trips, congestion and long-distance driving fatigue become greater concerns.
- More teen drivers: Summer means more young and inexperienced drivers on the road, which can raise crash rates.
Holiday weekends are especially dangerous. In 2024, alcohol-impaired drivers accounted for:
- 43% of fatal crashes during Memorial Day weekend
- 40% of crashes during the 4th of July holiday
- 39% of fatalities over Labor Day weekend
If you’re planning a trip during these high-risk times, avoiding peak travel hours and planning for a sober ride can help mitigate risk.
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Who Is Most at Risk? A Look at Crash Demographics
While traffic fatalities affect all age groups and genders, some drivers are statistically at a higher risk than others. Our analysis of recent crash data reveals key trends in who is most vulnerable on the road.
Age Groups Most Affected
Fatal crashes disproportionately impact certain age groups, with young and middle-aged adults facing the highest risk. In 2022, the most affected age brackets included:
- 25 – 34 years old: 8,104 fatalities
- 35 – 44 years old: 6,702 fatalities
- 55 – 64 years old: 5,967 fatalities
- 65 – 74 years old: 4,291 fatalities
- 74+ years old: 3,680 fatalities
- 15 – 20 years old: 3,423 fatalities
Young adults between 25 and 34 saw the highest number of fatalities, likely due to a combination of increased driving frequency, a higher likelihood of risky behaviors such as speeding, and a greater chance of driving at night or under the influence.
Gender Disparities in Fatalities
Our findings also show a stark contrast between male and female crash fatalities. In 2023:
- Males accounted for 72.3% of all traffic fatalities, totaling 30,669 deaths.
- Females accounted for 27.7% of fatalities, with 11,737 deaths.
Men are statistically more likely to engage in high-risk driving behaviors, such as speeding, impaired driving, and not wearing seatbelts, all of which significantly increase the likelihood of fatal crashes. While women are involved in accidents as well, they tend to drive more cautiously, contributing to their lower fatality rate.
These demographic trends highlight the importance of targeted safety measures, including education on responsible driving and stricter enforcement of speeding and impaired driving laws, particularly among young adults and male drivers. By understanding these risk factors, we can work toward improving road safety for all motorists.
Should We Rethink Speed Limits? 29% of Fatalities Linked to Speeding
Speeding remains one of the leading causes of fatal crashes, contributing to 29% of all traffic deaths in 2022. Higher speeds reduce reaction times, increase stopping distances, and make collisions far more severe.
Among the most alarming statistics:
- 16,894 fatalities occurred in crashes where vehicles were traveling at speeds of 55 mph or higher.
- Speeding is particularly dangerous on highways and rural roads, where high speeds make it harder for drivers to react to obstacles or sudden stops.
Lowering speed limits in high-risk areas and improving enforcement could play a key role in reducing crash rates. However, driver awareness is just as critical—slowing down and following posted speed limits can make a significant difference in preventing accidents.
The Hidden Danger: Distracted Driving
While much attention is given to drunk driving and speeding, distracted driving remains a major contributor to roadway fatalities. In 2022, 7.8% of all traffic deaths were linked to drivers who weren’t fully paying attention to the road.
Common distractions include:
- Phone use: Texting, calling, or even glancing at a notification takes a driver’s focus away from the road.
- Eating and drinking: Taking one hand off the wheel to grab food or a drink can lead to a delayed reaction time.
- Passenger interactions: Talking with others in the car or managing children in the backseat can be a major distraction.
Many states have implemented hands-free driving laws, but personal responsibility remains the key factor in reducing distracted driving fatalities.
5 Essential Road Safety Tips for Your Next Long Drive
With summer travel season in full swing, planning ahead can help reduce risks on the road. Here are five essential tips for safer road trips:
- Travel at the safest times: Aim to be on the road between 8 AM and 11:59 AM to avoid peak crash hours.
- Avoid high–risk days: If possible, schedule road trips on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, when traffic congestion is lower and accident rates are reduced.
- Stay alert and take breaks: Fatigue can be as dangerous as drunk driving. If you’re feeling tired, take a break or switch drivers.
- Prepare your vehicle: Check tire pressure, oil levels, brakes, and fuel before hitting the road to avoid mechanical issues.
- Plan ahead for safe arrivals: If you know you’ll be drinking at your destination, arrange for a designated driver or use a rideshare service to get home safely.
Our Takeaway on Road Safety
At Farmer & Morris, we believe that awareness is the first step toward safer roads. While accidents can happen at any time, our analysis shows clear trends in when crashes are most likely to occur.
By understanding these patterns and adjusting travel plans accordingly, drivers can reduce their risk and help make the roads safer for everyone.
Whether you’re heading out for a summer road trip or just commuting to work, taking precautions—like avoiding peak crash hours, reducing distractions, and obeying speed limits—can make a significant difference.
By staying informed and making smart choices, we can all work toward a safer driving experience.
