Why Are Car Accidents More Common in the Summer?

 Posted on May 13, 2026 in Car Accident

While winter driving poses real risks, summer is statistically one of the most dangerous times of year for drivers. This stems from a combination of more cars on the roads, riskier driving behaviors, and changes in the driving population.

If you've been injured in a crash in 2026, whether it was warm outside or not, a Rolling Meadows car accident attorney can help you understand your next steps.

What Makes Summer Driving More Dangerous than Winter Driving in Illinois?

Part of the increased risk during the summer stems from the simple fact that traffic volume rises as the weather warms up. Although the school year creates predictable congestion before and after school hours, summer travel patterns generally lead to a greater overall number of vehicles on the road. Vacations, road trips, outdoor events, and extended daylight hours all contribute to heavier traffic. Increased traffic volume naturally creates more opportunities for collisions, particularly on highways and at intersections that may become congested or develop hazardous merging conditions.

Construction is another factor. Road repair projects that get delayed all winter often start in warmer months. This creates lane closures, reduced speed zones, and unpredictable traffic patterns. Driver frustration in construction zones can lead to aggressive driving and rear-end collisions.

The Impact of Teen and New Drivers on Road Safety

Every summer, a new wave of newly licensed teenagers hits the road. The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is known as the "100 Deadliest Days" for teen drivers. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has documented higher crash rates among teen drivers during the summer compared to the school year.

Summer gives teens more opportunities to drive – often with other teenagers in the car. Peer passengers increase distraction and the likelihood of risk-taking behavior behind the wheel. Teen drivers lack the experience to handle unexpected situations. Nighttime driving, which teens do more of in summer, is also statistically more dangerous for new drivers.

Does Drunk Driving Increase in the Summer in Illinois?

Drunk and impaired driving crashes rise during the summer months. The combination of more social events and holiday weekends means more people are drinking more often. Not everyone finds a designated driver afterward.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) consistently reports that holidays like the Fourth of July and Labor Day weekend rank among the deadliest of the year for alcohol-related crashes. In Illinois, law  625 ILCS 5/11-501 sets a blood alcohol concentration limit of 0.08 percent for most drivers. However, impairment begins well below that legal threshold. Many serious crashes involve drivers who wouldn't have registered over the limit on a breathalyzer.

Summer events often involve marijuana use as well, and drug-impaired driving is a growing concern in many states. Illinois legalized recreational marijuana several years ago. Law enforcement has noted challenges in detecting and prosecuting drugged driving because it doesn't show up on a breathalyzer the way alcohol does.

If you have to travel on major holiday weekends in summer, extra caution is warranted. Law enforcement agencies increase patrols during these periods. However, the sheer volume of impaired or tired drivers on the road during peak travel times makes these months much higher-risk than regular driving. Avoiding late-night driving and heavily-traveled routes during holiday weekends can reduce your exposure to potential accidents.

What Other Hazards Lead to Car Accidents in the Summer?

Several other summertime conditions can increase the likelihood of a car accident.

Heat

Heat affects vehicle performance. Tire blowouts are more common in hot weather. High temperatures increase pressure inside tires and accelerate wear. A sudden blowout at highway speed can cause a driver to lose control with very little warning.

Glare

Glare from the sun is a real hazard. In the morning and evening, low sun angles can make it very difficult to see traffic signals, pedestrians, or stopped vehicles ahead. Drivers who don't adjust their speed or use sun visors appropriately cause more accidents than most people realize.

Increased Pedestrian and Cyclist Activity

Pedestrian and cyclist activity increases dramatically in summer, especially in communities around parks, trails, and recreational areas. Pedestrians and cyclists have essentially no protection in a collision with a vehicle. Drivers who aren't watching for people on foot or on bikes can cause serious injury, even at slow speeds.

Being aware of the hazards summer poses can help reduce the chance of life-threatening accidents. However, the best preparation won’t always stop other drivers from being inattentive or behaving recklessly. In these cases, a car accident lawyer can help make sure you get a fair chance at compensation for damages.

Call an Arlington Heights, IL Car Accident Attorney Today

The Rolling Meadows car accident lawyers at Newland & Newland, LLP have decades of combined legal experience and a track record of millions of dollars in successful verdicts. We're local attorneys who are invested in the safety and well-being of the communities we live and work in. Call 847-797-8000 for a free consultation today.