Holiday driving brings increased accidents on Southern California roads.
Millions are hitting Southern California roads for the holidays. Safety advocates warn it’s one of the most dangerous times to drive
SAN DIEGO — Whether drivers are heading across town or across the state, safety advocates say the holiday season is one of the most dangerous times of year to be on the road.
From Thanksgiving through New Year’s, crashes, injuries and fatalities tend to increase, driven by heavier traffic, higher speeds and more impaired and fatigued drivers. This year, there will be no shortage of vehicles on Southern California freeways. According to AAA, nearly 9 million people in Southern California are expected to travel by car during the year-end holiday period, adding congestion, longer drive times, and more opportunities for deadly mistakes.
“The reality is more people on the road, more careless actions,” said Tammy Gweedo McGee, executive director of the Gweedo Memorial Foundation. “It can mean fatalities, injuries, deaths. But speed is something we can control, and buckling up.”
McGee travels the country, talking to teen drivers about the real-life consequences of dangerous driving, a message shaped by personal tragedy.
Her son, Conner Gweedo, was killed in a crash in 2019 after accepting a short ride from a friend to a nearby party. “We want you to be responsible,” McGee said. “When you’re behind the wheel, recognize that you’re driving a lethal weapon.”
According to McGee, the crash happened less than a mile from the destination.
“He reached speeds of 75 miles an hour in a 35 in only 500 yards,” she said. “He lost control of the car, hit a tree, and killed all three of them instantly. All three of the boys were gone in the blink of an eye from something that was 100% preventable.”
Safety officials say stories like Conner’s are far too common during the holidays. The National Road Safety Foundation says impairment and fatigue are major contributors to deadly crashes during this time of year.
“There’s more traffic on our roads,” said David Reich with the foundation. “People are rushing, speeding a bit more, and driving more aggressively because they’re in a hurry.”
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration refers to the holiday season as the “3D month” — drinking, distraction, and drowsiness — a dangerous combination that peaks as celebrations increase and daylight hours decrease.
Advocates say planning ahead can save lives.
“If you’re going to be at a party and you’re going to be celebrating, have a sober ride planned,” McGee said.
She urges drivers to take advantage of ride-share services or call a trusted friend.
“You have Uber, you have Lyft, or call a friend,” McGee said. “We need to work together to make sure everybody’s safe on our roadways.”
Safety advocates say slowing down, buckling up and never driving impaired can help prevent tragedies and ensure more families make it home safely this holiday season.