The deadliest day for drivers is in August

Even though August has no major holidays in which West Palm Beach residents and other South Floridians might make a special trip to the beach and have a few drinks, the month can claim the dubious honor of having within it the deadliest day for motorists.

According to a recent report, on average, August 2 is the worst day for fatal motor vehicle accidents across the country. Analyzing crash statistics from 2012 through 2016, there were on average 101 traffic-related deaths annually on August 2. In what might come as less of a surprise, July 4, a major holiday in which parties are common, came in second place, with an average of 99 deaths. Rounding out the top 5 were October 25, May 3 and November 1.

Those who reviewed this report suggested that first, for whatever reason, people just drive a little less cautiously in the summer, perhaps because the weather is so nice that people are subconsciously telling themselves that it is safer to take a few risks they normally would not take in other types of weather.

Moreover, the first week of August is a time in which many people take a lengthy vacation, meaning that there is more traffic on the roads, and many of the motorists on the road might not be familiar with the area. Finally, car crashes of all types tend to spike in the month of August.

Families in Florida who have sadly lost a loved one recently to a fatal accident may have legal options available to them, including the option of filing a wrongful death lawsuit. Through a wrongful death suit, a family can get compensation for things like funeral expenses, medical bills, lost wages, and emotional damages.