Maintaining gainful employment typically requires certain concessions from professionals. Commuting to work is one of them. Unless remote work is an option, professionals either have to drive themselves to and from work, participate in a carpool or make use of public transportation.
Operating a personal motor vehicle is usually the most reliable option. However, there are risks involved. The professional has to absorb the costs of fuel and vehicle maintenance. They also have to accept the possibility of a crash occurring.
Collisions can occur anytime and anywhere. Still, there are certain scenarios in which the likelihood of a wreck is higher. First-shift professionals who commute to work are at elevated crash risk because of when they drive.
Certain times are more dangerous for drivers
The National Safety Council (NSC) provides data about common safety concerns and recommends certain safety practices. They review information about collisions to guide policy and help people limit their risk of a wreck.
The NSC has determined that nighttime driving is when the risk of a crash is highest. When looking at the number of collisions and the number of miles traveled, the night is unquestionably the most dangerous time to be on the road. The NSC also recognizes the afternoon rush hour as a particularly dangerous time to drive. Specifically, motorists on the road between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. on weeknights are at elevated risk of a wreck.
What makes an after-work commute dangerous?
A variety of traffic hazards are present during the afternoon rush hour. Higher traffic density is always cause for concern. People on their way home or resolving work-related issues might be more at risk of distraction. They might handle their phones to respond to a supervisor’s email or communicate with family members.
Afternoon fatigue is a safety concern as well. Many people experience a slump in energy that could put them at risk of falling asleep at the wheel. Drunk driving could also be an issue, as some people stop off for a few happy hour drinks before going home for the day.
Regardless of when a motor vehicle collision occurs, those involved may need help seeking compensation afterward, and that’s okay. Pursuing financial relief through an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit can help those involved in commute-related collisions reduce their losses.