October Overtakes Summer: New Analysis Names Fall's First Full Month the Deadliest for U.S. Drivers - Social Media Explorer

"For decades, summer held the dubious crown as the most dangerous season on American roads. A new analysis by John Foy & Associates breaks that assumption wide open: October 2023 recorded more fatal crashes than any other month, overtaking the historically hazardous summer surge and signaling a fundamental shift in when drivers face the highest risk. Drawing on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database, the firm's whitepaper confirms 37,654 fatal crashes in 2023, leading to 40,901 deaths and more than 2.6 million injuries nationwide. October alone accounted for 3,505 fatal crashes-nearly 12% above the monthly average of 3,138, pushing the fall season within striking distance of summer's long-recognized peak."

""The numbers are unequivocal: October has become the most dangerous month on U.S. roads," said a spokesperson for John Foy & Associates. "As daylight patterns shift and evening commutes darken, the combination of reduced visibility, busier traffic, and event travel spikes creates a perfect storm." What's Driving the October Shift? The analysis points to several converging factors: Daylight Saving Time transition effects that disrupt routines and reduce evening visibility just as commute volumes peak. Cooler, wetter conditions that decrease tire traction and increase stopping distances. Holiday-adjacent travel and fall event traffic that elevate volumes and fatigue."

NHTSA data show 37,654 fatal crashes in 2023, resulting in 40,901 deaths and over 2.6 million injuries nationwide. October alone accounted for 3,505 fatal crashes, nearly 12% above the monthly average of 3,138, pushing fall nearly even with summer's totals. Contributing factors include Daylight Saving Time transitions that reduce evening visibility, cooler and wetter conditions that lower tire traction, and holiday-adjacent or event travel that increases traffic and driver fatigue. Three behaviors—alcohol impairment, speeding, and distraction—were present in roughly 66% of fatal crashes in 2023. Alcohol-impaired driving contributed to 11,222 crashes, approximately 30% of monthly fatalities on average.

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