Louisiana September Crash Analysis: Alarming Trends
As we transition from summer to fall, Louisiana’s roads often become more dangerous, and September 2023 was no exception. According to data from LSU’s Center for Analytics & Research in Transportation Safety, September 2023 saw a significant spike in both fatal and injury crashes, underscoring the importance of heightened awareness and caution on our roads.
A Surge in Fatal Crashes
September 2023 recorded the second-highest number of fatal crashes in the year, with 80 lives lost on Louisiana roads. This number is alarmingly close to December 2023’s 81 fatal crashes, the highest monthly total for the year. Historically, September has proven to be a deadly month on Louisiana’s roads, with a 17.1% increase in fatal crashes compared to the average number for any given month in 2023.
Labor Day Weekend: A Dangerous Time on the Roads
The report also sheds light on the dangers associated with holiday travel. Of the eight recognized holiday periods analyzed, Labor Day weekend ranked fourth in the number of suspected injury crashes and tied with Mardi Gras for the second-highest number of fatal crashes during a holiday period. These statistics serve as a grim reminder of the risks associated with holiday travel and the need for drivers to exercise extra caution during these busy times.
Alcohol Related Fatal Crashes: A Concerning Trend
One of the most alarming findings from the September 2023 data is the high number of alcohol-related fatal crashes. The month recorded 32 such incidents, accounting for 14.48% of the year’s total alcohol-related fatalities.
Interestingly, this spike is even more concerning when compared to data from previous years. For example, September was the lowest month for alcohol-related fatal crashes in 2021 and 2022. The sharp contrast between these years emphasizes the unpredictable nature of road safety and the persistent issue of impaired driving.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The data from September 2023 paints a concerning picture of the state of road safety in Louisiana. With the second-highest number of fatal crashes for the year, a significant increase in alcohol-related fatalities, and high injury crash rates, it is clear that more needs to be done to address these issues.
At Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys, we are committed to advocating for safer roads and supporting those affected by these tragic events. As we move forward, we urge all drivers to stay vigilant, especially during peak travel periods, and to make responsible choices to protect themselves and others on the road.
