Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year, and even though COVID-19 has changed many things, we’re doing our best to make this Christmas holiday as happy and fun as usual. The tree is up, and the house is decorated. Christmas is only nine days away, and I’m not done with my shopping yet—but I’m working on it! When I do venture out to finish my shopping, I will be as careful as possible. Here’s why:
Every year, we see an increase in accidents during the holidays. The typical accidents range from rear-end car crashes to slip and fall accidents. As you can imagine, the culprit is usually an increase in traffic due to holiday shopping and the snowy and icy conditions that are all too common in Massachusetts during this time of year.
It’s no surprise, however, that this year has been different. With so many people doing their holiday shopping online in order to avoid exposure to the coronavirus, there are more delivery vehicles on the roads and highways. The delivery drivers are unfamiliar with the neighborhoods and are making frequent, unanticipated stops looking for their target delivery locations. These factors have led to an increase in rear-end collisions.
Additionally, delivery companies are inundated with packages this time of year, and they are working around the clock to meet tight delivery deadlines. Sometimes, their drivers are in such a rush that they drive carelessly, which results in accidents and injuries.
So, please be extra careful when you venture out this season so you can enjoy the holidays with your loved ones. We have represented many people seriously injured during this time of year. Trust us; you don’t want to be dealing with injuries, doctor’s appointments, medical bills, and a damaged vehicle during the holidays. We understand that some accidents are unavoidable, but please do your best to be cautious while out and about this holiday season.
From all of us here at Mahaney & Pappas, we wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday season and a wonderful New Year.
-Chuck Pappas
