Memorial Day Accidents: Why Injuries Spike and How to Stay Safe

Memorial Day is more than just a three-day weekend—it’s a time to honor those who served, reconnect with loved ones, and kick off the unofficial start of summer. But with the excitement of cookouts, road trips, and lake days, accidents are more common than you might think.

From heavy traffic to risky water activities, Memorial Day weekend has some of the highest accident rates of the year. Before you pack the cooler and hit the road, here are some important safety reminders that could help you avoid a trip to the emergency room.

Why Accidents Spike on Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day celebrations can be a recipe for danger if safety isn’t part of your planning. Here are a few reasons why accidents are more likely this time of year:

1. Drunk Driving

Alcohol is the number one contributor to serious crashes over Memorial Day. Whether it’s behind the wheel of a car or a boat, drinking impairs judgment and slows reaction time.

Tip: If you’re planning to drink, don’t drive—at all. Even “just one drink” can impair your ability to react quickly. Designate a sober driver or use a rideshare app.

2. Unpredictable Weather

May weather in Texas can be wild—sunshine one minute, thunderstorms the next. Sudden rain or wind can lead to dangerous driving conditions or even boating accidents.

Tip: Check the forecast before heading out, and make backup plans in case the weather takes a turn.

3. Driver Fatigue

Many people travel long distances to be with family and friends. Exhausted drivers have slower reflexes and are more likely to make poor decisions behind the wheel.

Tip: Share the driving duties and plan for rest stops. Never push through fatigue—your safety isn’t worth the risk.

4. Holiday Traffic

Memorial Day means packed highways, crowded beaches, and congested lakes. All that congestion increases the risk of collisions and frustration-fueled mistakes.

Tip: Give yourself extra time to reach your destination and stay calm in traffic. Avoid aggressive driving, even if others aren’t so courteous.

5. Inexperienced Drivers

Teen drivers often take the wheel over long weekends. Unfortunately, they may not have the experience needed to handle busy roads or quick decisions.

Tip: If your teen is driving, make sure they’ve had plenty of practice. And always supervise or limit their driving during high-traffic times.

What to Do If You’re Injured Over Memorial Day

Even with precautions, accidents can happen. If you’re hurt because someone else was careless, taking the right steps afterward can make a big difference in your recovery—and your legal rights.

1. Document the Scene
Take photos of the accident, injuries, vehicles, or anything else that might help prove what happened.

2. Get Medical Help
Even if you feel “fine,” see a doctor. Some injuries don’t show up right away. Getting checked out protects your health and creates a record of your injuries.

3. Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney
A lawyer can guide you through your next steps, protect you from insurance company tactics, and help you get the compensation you’re legally entitled to.

Hurt on Memorial Day? Call Shaw for Injury Help!

Memorial Day should be about honoring heroes—not dealing with hospital visits or insurance battles. If you or a loved one were hurt due to someone else’s negligence anywhere in Texas, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Ambulance Costs,

• ER Treatment,

• Surgeries,

• Medical Bills,

• Pain and Suffering,

• Property Damage,

• Missed Work,

• Wrongful Death,

• And More.

We can help you find out for free.

Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 today or use the live chat to schedule your free case evaluation with one of our experienced car accident attorneys. There are no fees or obligations attached, just the expert legal advice you need. Carabin Shaw has been a trusted name in San Antonio and across Texas for over 32 years because we put our clients first.

We look forward to serving you.

 

¹NCS Injury Estimates (2025)