Fall is the most dangerous time of the year on the roads for drivers in the majority of the nation.
A recent in-depth analysis of data by CARFAX found that more crashes were reported in the fall than in any other season in 39 of 50 states. Among the states with the most fall crashes were California, Texas, New York, Illinois and Georgia.
“Seasonal shifts can bring new risks on the road, making this a good time to slow down, stay alert, and check for maintenance or open recalls to ensure the safety of the vehicle and everyone on the road,” said Faisal Hasan, Vice President of Data Acquisition at CARFAX. “CARFAX has the most accident, damage, and service information that no one else has, offering these insights to keep drivers informed and one step ahead.”
Diminishing daylight, slick surfaces and deer were among the hazards credited with contributing to the rise in fall accidents.
Six states – Oklahoma, Montana, Vermont, New Hampshire and North Dakota – had the highest number of crashes in the winter. Florida and Pennsylvania had the highest number of wrecks in the spring. Northwest states, Oregon and Washington, recorded the largest number of crashes in the summer.
The most common day of the week for accidents was Friday in 42 states. Oklahoma, Utah, Colorado, New Jersey and Vermont saw the highest number of wrecks on Tuesday.
For nearly the entire nation, 46 states, Sunday had the fewest crashes.
The CARFAX report found that 60.7% of crashes were rear-end collisions. Other than other vehicles, animals were the object hit the most, 17.6%, and parked vehicles, 15.7%.
