Many professionals prefer to work first-shift jobs. A regular first-shift schedule allows a professional to have their weekends free and their evenings available for family matters. The predictable nature of an established first-shift schedule makes it easier for people to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Some people even take jobs that pay less or that require a longer commute because they have better scheduling available. First-shift professionals who do not work at home may not realize that the schedule they work actually puts them at elevated risk of being involved in major motor vehicle collision.
People must commute during a dangerous time
Technically, a car crash can happen at any time. However, when looking at the big picture, there are clear trends regarding the timing of car wrecks. According to data analysis performed by the National Safety Council (NSC), driving at night is the most dangerous time to drive.
Once the sun sets, reduced visibility and other hazards, including animal activity, significantly increase the risk of a severe collision. The NSC notes that there is another time with significantly increased overall collision risk. Drivers who are on the road during the afternoon rush hour on weekdays are at increased risk of a major motor vehicle collision.
The hours between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. on weeknights are far more dangerous than the rest of the day. Some of those crashes are caused by intoxication. People stop off for drinks on the way home from work and then drive home while not fully sober. Other crashes relate to distraction. People leave the office and continue responding to client emails or try to message friends and family while on the way home.
Fatigue after a long day at work can also increase the likelihood of a motor vehicle collision occurring. Finally, the number of vehicles on the road and the likelihood of drivers giving in to their emotions after a long day at work are also safety concerns. Regardless of when a crash occurs, the people involved usually have the right to hold the driver at fault accountable.
Motorists who are aware of when their risk is higher may have an easier time making safety-conscious choices in traffic. But, should a crash occur despite someone’s best efforts, filing a liability insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit can potentially help people mitigate the damages generated by an afternoon rush hour car crash.