Driving can be dangerous at any hour, but certain times of the day pose higher risks due to traffic patterns, driver behavior, and environmental factors.
Understanding when these high-risk periods occur in Seattle and across Washington can help you stay safer on the road.
If you’ve been involved in an accident, you must seek advice from an auto accident lawyer in Seattle, Washington, to protect your rights.
1. Evening Rush Hour (5 PM – 6 PM)
With commuters flooding the roads, 5 PM and 6 PM are among the most hazardous driving times. This hour accounts for a significant proportion of accidents nationwide due to congestion, impatience, and distracted driving.
In Washington, this timeframe contributes to many fatal crashes as drivers rush to get home.
2. Early Night (8 PM – 9 PM)
Washington’s deadliest time to drive is between 8 PM and 9 PM. Studies indicate that 6.22% of fatal crashes in the state happen during this hour, often linked to impaired driving and reduced visibility at night.
A Seattle car wreck attorney can guide those injured on the following steps to pursue compensation.
3. Late Night (12 AM – 3 AM)
Accidents peak during these hours due to a sharp increase in alcohol-impaired driving. Drivers returning from social events or bars may react slower, and empty roads encourage speeding.
These high-risk behaviors make this period one of the most dangerous on the road.
4. Weekend Afternoons (2 PM – 3 PM)
While afternoons might seem safe, weekends are an exception. Distracted driving increases as people run errands or take recreational trips. If you’re injured in such an incident, a Seattle car accident attorney or injury attorney in Seattle can evaluate your case.
5. Friday Evenings (6 PM – 8 PM)
Fridays combine after-work fatigue with weekend excitement, leading to increased accidents. This period often sees higher traffic volumes and more aggressive driving, especially near downtown Seattle.
6. Early Morning Commutes (6 AM – 8 AM)
Morning commutes are another risky window as drowsy drivers head to work. With the sun rising later during fall and winter, visibility becomes challenging, making it a prime time for accidents.
7. Summer Evenings (June to September)
The summer months see the most fatalities as leisure travel increases. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day—often called the “100 Deadliest Days”—accidents surge, particularly involving young drivers.
According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, over 960 fatalities occurred over the past five years.
8. Holiday Weekends (Evenings)
Holidays such as the Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve see spikes in drunk driving and fatal accidents. Consulting with a Washington accident lawyer is vital if you’re involved in a crash during these times.
9. Winter Mornings (7 AM – 9 AM)
Snow, ice, and fog create treacherous road conditions in winter. Collisions during morning hours become more likely as drivers adjust to slippery roads, and lack of preparation leads to accidents.
10. Sunday Nights (9 PM – 12 AM)
As the weekend ends, drivers returning home after long trips may suffer from fatigue or distraction. Reduced traffic can also lead to speeding, increasing the risk of severe accidents.
Stay Safe and Know Your Legal Options
Accidents can happen even to the most cautious drivers. Whether caused by distracted driving, speeding, or impaired behavior, acting promptly is crucial. A car accident attorney near me can help you understand your legal rights and seek the compensation you deserve.
Washington’s laws penalize negligent driving, including severe consequences for impaired drivers. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s recklessness, a Seattle car accident attorney can help. They can guide you through filing a claim, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, taking the case to court.
