Ty Robinson | July 11, 2025 | Car Accidents

The Most Dangerous Time to Drive

Driving is a necessary part of daily life, but it isn’t equally risky at all hours. Traffic accident data shows that certain times of day, days of the week, and even seasons are far more dangerous on the road than others.

It is helpful to understand when the roads tend to be most hazardous and why, based on recent car accident statistics and research.

High-Risk Times of Day

Late afternoon through early evening tends to be one of the riskiest times to be on the road. This stretch usually lines up with weekday rush hour, when traffic is heavy and drivers are trying to get home. Congested roads, impatience, and fatigue from the workday all raise the chance of accidents.

The risks don’t ease up after sunset. In fact, they often grow. Night driving brings a unique set of challenges, and while only about a quarter of all driving happens at night, around half of all fatal crashes occur during these hours.

Low visibility plays a role, but it’s not the only concern. As the night wears on, especially on weekends, you’re more likely to encounter impaired or tired drivers. 

Late-night hours often follow social events, and that increases the number of people on the road under the influence. When darkness, drowsiness, and alcohol mix, the chances of serious drunk driving crashes go up sharply.

The Most Dangerous Days of the Week

Just as certain hours are riskier, some days of the week have higher accident rates than others. Weekends, especially, see the most deadly crashes. Among these, Saturday often stands out as the single most dangerous day to drive, with the highest number of fatal accidents. 

This may be due to a mix of factors. More people are out traveling for leisure, drivers may take routes they’re less familiar with, weekend nights involve more partying, and this all means there are more impaired drivers. 

By Saturday evening, many drivers on the road are either in a rush to enjoy their weekend or heading home late, sometimes under the influence — a recipe for increased crash risk. 

Fridays are also notably hazardous. In fact, data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) counted over 1.15 million traffic crashes on a Friday in a single recent year, which is more than any other day of the week. Friday’s danger likely comes from the combination of heavy commuter traffic and the kickoff of weekend travel. 

In summer and early fall, you’re more likely to encounter heavy traffic and a higher crash rate. Warm weather usually draws people out for vacations, festivals, and outdoor activities, naturally increasing exposure to accidents. 

In fact, July through October often rank among the deadliest months for drivers. More miles on the road, combined with summer celebrations and riskier behaviors like speeding or driving after drinking, often push those numbers higher.

In contrast, winter months usually see fewer total collisions in many areas. January and February often record the lowest mileage and the lowest crash counts. 

While snow and ice can make conditions tricky, most motorists tend to stay off the roads when the weather is severe. And if you do head out in winter, you’re more likely to slow down and exercise extra caution, which helps keep car accident rates lower.

Contact Our Charleston Personal Injury Lawyer At Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm Today

While accidents can happen at any time, data clearly shows there are certain times when driving is more dangerous. 

Being aware of these patterns can help you make informed decisions — maybe postponing a non-urgent trip during a stormy Friday rush hour or taking extra care if you have to be on the road during a holiday night. Staying vigilant, sober, and patient behind the wheel goes a long way toward reducing risk. 

If you were injured in an accident in Charleston, South Carolina, and need legal help, contact our Charleston personal injury lawyer at Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm to schedule a free case review today.

Ty Robinson Personal Injury & Car Accident Law Firm
28 Broad St Suite 204-2
Charleston, SC 29401
(843) 278-2222