Labor Day weekend is here – a time to celebrate the American labor movement, enjoy the last stretch of summer, and gather with family and friends. In Massachusetts, from Boston to Worcester, Framingham to Cape Cod, and all across the North Shore and South Shore, people look forward to cookouts, beach trips, and end-of-summer getaways. But with so many residents and visitors traveling, this holiday weekend also brings an unfortunate increase in traffic and motor vehicle accidents.
While we all want to make the most of the long weekend, it’s important to remember that Labor Day is one of the most dangerous travel holidays of the year. Whether you’re driving through Boston, heading west toward Worcester, or taking the Mass Pike from Framingham to the Cape, staying alert and practicing defensive driving can help keep you and your family safe.
Car Accidents Spike During Labor Day Weekend
The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that approximately 424 people may be fatally injured on U.S. roads during the 2025 Labor Day holiday period. Labor Day is traditionally a time when families across the country, including here in Massachusetts, Boston, Framingham, Worcester, and surrounding towns, hit the road for end-of-summer trips. Car travel, while convenient, carries the highest fatality rate of any major form of motorized transportation when measured per passenger mile.
Holiday celebrations typically often involve alcohol, which remains a leading factor in serious and fatal motor vehicle crashes. According to the NSC, nearly 50,000 people are seriously injured nationwide during the Labor Day weekend. Here in Massachusetts, where highways like I-90, I-93, I-95, and Route 9 are already congested, the holiday travel rush only increases the risk of crashes.
Common Causes of Labor Day Car Accidents in Massachusetts
Distracted Driving
Labor Day is often the last chance for a summer road trip in Massachusetts, which makes drivers eager and sometimes careless. Distractions from cell phones, GPS devices, passengers, or children in the backseat can pull attention away from the road. Just a split second of inattention can cause a serious crash on busy highways or local streets.
Drunk or Impaired Driving
From Boston bars to backyard barbecues across Worcester County and the Metrowest, alcohol is a common part of holiday celebrations. But alcohol reduces reaction time, motor skills, and judgment. Additionally, research of marijuana and THC shows how marijuana slows reaction times and our decision-making abilities impairing a driver’s coordination, motor skills and perception. Getting behind the wheel while impaired endangers everyone on the road. Plan ahead, use a rideshare, or designate a sober driver – don’t’ risk your life or someone else’s.
What To Do If You’re Injured in a Labor Day Car Accident
If you or a loved one are hurt in a car accident caused by a negligent, distracted, or drunk driver this Labor Day weekend, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent injuries or disability
Filing a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company in Massachusetts isn’t easy – insurance companies often try to minimize or deny claims. That’s why it’s critical to consult with an experienced Massachusetts car accident attorney. A skilled lawyer will:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly to establish fault
- Gather medical and financial evidence to prove your damages
- Fight insurance companies to get you the compensation you deserve
Whether your accident happened in Boston, Framingham, Worcester, or anywhere in Massachusetts, having an attorney by your side can make all the difference in protecting your rights and your future.
Final Thoughts
Labor Day weekend should be a time of celebration, not tragedy. Drive defensively, avoid distractions, and never drink and drive. If the worst happens and you’re injured in a crash, know that help is available.
We wish everyone across Massachusetts—from Boston to Worcester, Framingham, and every surrounding town – a safe and enjoyable Labor Day weekend
Don’t forget, for answers to many questions and great information on how to get the best possible settlement in your accident case, get a copy of our book: 