Labor Day weekend is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, bringing increased traffic to New York highways, city streets, and popular destinations. While many people spend the holiday with family and friends, the combination of heavier traffic, impaired driving, distracted driving, and driver fatigue often leads to a spike in serious accidents.
If you are injured in a Labor Day weekend crash, knowing what to do can help protect both your health and your legal rights.
Why Do More Accidents Happen During Labor Day Weekend?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), holiday weekends consistently see an increase in traffic fatalities due to higher travel volumes and risky driving behaviors. Common causes of Labor Day accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Driver fatigue
- Heavy traffic congestion
- Aggressive driving
Busy roadways such as the Long Island Expressway, New York State Thruway, and major New York City highways often experience increased congestion throughout the holiday weekend.
Common Labor Day Accident Injuries
Even low-speed collisions can cause serious injuries, including:
- Head and brain injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Soft tissue damage
Because some injuries may not appear immediately, seeking prompt medical care after any crash is important.
What Should You Do After a Labor Day Accident?
The steps you take following an accident can affect both your recovery and any future personal injury claim.
1. Seek Medical Attention
Your health should always come first. Medical records also help document injuries related to the accident.
2. Call the Police
A police report can provide important evidence about how the crash occurred.
3. Gather Evidence
If it is safe to do so, take photos of the vehicles, roadway, and your injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and exchange insurance information with the other driver.
4. Be Careful When Speaking with Insurance Companies
Avoid admitting fault or accepting a quick settlement before you understand the full extent of your injuries.
Understanding New York’s No-Fault Insurance Laws
New York is a no-fault insurance state, meaning your own insurance generally pays for initial medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who caused the accident.
However, if you suffer a serious injury, you may be able to pursue additional compensation against the at-fault driver for damages such as pain and suffering and future medical expenses.
When Should You Contact a Personal Injury Attorney?
Holiday weekend accidents can involve multiple vehicles, disputed liability, or serious injuries. An attorney can investigate the accident, preserve evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and help determine whether you may be entitled to compensation.
Contact Sullivan Papain After a Labor Day Accident
A Labor Day weekend accident can leave you facing medical bills, missed work, and uncertainty about what comes next. The attorneys at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. have decades of experience representing injured New Yorkers and helping them pursue the compensation they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Labor Day traffic accident, speaking with an experienced New York personal injury attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options.