Attorney at Graves McLain Injury Lawyers
Practice Areas: Car Accidents, Medical Malpractice, Vaccine Injuries
The holidays are a time to connect with family and friends, share meals, and enjoy long-awaited traditions. But as excitement builds, so does the risk on our roads. Between increased travel, bad weather, and more frequent alcohol use, the chance of a serious car accident goes up—especially in Oklahoma.
If you’re driving during the holidays, even a moment of carelessness can turn into a tragedy. Staying safe isn’t about doing something extreme. It’s about small, wise choices that protect you, your passengers, and everyone around you.
Driving during the holiday season is unlike any other time of year. Roads are more crowded, people are often in a rush, and distractions are everywhere. Add in alcohol, icy streets, and late-night travel, and the risk grows.
According to the National Safety Council, nearly 700 people are killed on U.S. roads each holiday season. Many more suffer serious injuries. Oklahoma has seen a steady rise in holiday-related crashes in recent years, especially in areas like Tulsa, where traffic picks up near shopping centers and event venues.
Nearly 700 lives are lost on U.S. roads during the holiday season, with thousands more injured. – National Safety Council
Wearing your seatbelt should be automatic, no matter the distance. Oklahoma law requires all drivers and front-seat passengers to wear seatbelts. Children must be in the proper car seat based on age, height, and weight.
Oklahoma law requires drivers and front-seat passengers to wear seatbelts at all times. Children under eight must be properly restrained. – Oklahoma Statutes Title 47 § 11-1112
Even one drink can impair your judgment and slow your reaction time. If you’re celebrating with alcohol, plan. Use a designated driver or a rideshare app, or arrange to stay where you are. Oklahoma enforces DUI laws strictly, especially during the holidays.
Even one drink can affect your ability to drive. Alcohol-related crashes spike during Christmas and New Year holidays. – Oklahoma Highway Safety Office
Distracted driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving. That quick text or GPS check can take your eyes off the road long enough to cause a crash. If you need directions, pull over or let someone else navigate.
Fatigue is another common factor in holiday crashes. Many people travel late at night or after long days. If you feel drowsy, take a short break or switch drivers. Driving tired can be just as risky as driving under the influence.
Leave early, drive slower, and expect delays. Holiday traffic can be unpredictable, especially in bad weather. Aggressive driving won’t get you there much faster—but it might get you into trouble.
The numbers tell a clear story—driving during the holidays is dangerous. Both nationally and here in Oklahoma, crash rates go up when celebrations begin.
Category | U.S. (2023) | Oklahoma (2023) |
| Total Holiday Road Fatalities | 695 | 19 |
| Alcohol-Related Crashes | 38% | 41% |
| Distracted Driving Incidents | 12,000+ | 540+ |
| Seatbelt Non-Usage in Fatal Crashes | 48% | 52% |
Oklahoma law takes impaired and reckless driving seriously. During the holidays, police departments across the state increase patrols and set up DUI checkpoints. Legal blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08%, and penalties for DUI include jail time, fines, and license suspension.
Distracted driving and seatbelt violations are also primary offenses in Oklahoma, meaning officers can stop you solely for those reasons. With more officers on the road during the holidays, it’s a smart time to drive cautiously.
Even with precautions, accidents still happen. If you’re in a crash:
Holiday crashes often lead to delayed insurance responses due to office closures. It’s best to gather as much evidence as you can early on.
Accidents increase due to heavier traffic, more alcohol consumption, fatigue, and distracted driving during holiday activities.
DUI penalties include license suspension, fines, jail time, and increased insurance costs. Penalties can be harsher during holiday enforcement periods.
Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready (tires, battery, fluids), plan routes ahead, and monitor weather conditions. Rest before long trips and avoid night driving when possible.
Call 911, document the scene, seek medical care, and consult a personal injury lawyer to understand your legal options and compensation rights.
No. Oklahoma seatbelt and child restraint laws apply year-round. Enforcement may increase during holidays with safety campaigns and checkpoints.
Yes, but expect potential delays due to holiday closures. Act quickly to gather evidence and speak to a lawyer to protect your claim.
Holiday travel in Oklahoma should be joyful, not dangerous. While you can’t control other drivers, you can control your actions—buckling up, staying alert, driving sober, and planning. These simple habits can save lives, including your own.
If you’re hurt in a crash this holiday season, Graves McLain Injury Lawyers is here to help. We’ve supported many Tulsa families through difficult times, and we can help you understand your options.
Take care of yourself and those around you. Safe travels—and happy holidays.
When injury victims need a law firm with a reputation for excellence, turn to Graves McLain Injury Lawyers. We are a top-rated personal injury firm determined to be the best. With decades of award-winning representation, our clients recover the compensation they need to put their lives back together.
