The holidays are a time for celebration, connection, and cheer—but they can also bring risks that we don’t always see coming. From car accidents to OUIs to unexpected legal trouble, it’s a season when staying alert and planning ahead really matters.

Below, we’ve compiled practical tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe this holiday season—and what to do if something goes wrong.

The Most Dangerous Holidays for Auto Accidents

While holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s bring joy, they also bring an increase in auto accidents. According to U.S.A. Today, the most dangerous holidays for traffic collisions are:

  1. Memorial Day
  2. Fourth of July
  3. Thanksgiving
  4. Labor Day
  5. New Year’s Eve
  6. Christmas Day

The causes?

  • Increased alcohol use
  • More drivers on the road
  • Families traveling on unfamiliar routes
  • Winter weather conditions

These factors combine to make holiday driving especially risky.

Other Seasonal Safety Concerns

Beyond the roads, winter holidays come with other hazards:

  • House fires – often from cooking mishaps or dry Christmas trees
  • Electrical fires – faulty or overloaded lights and extension cords
  • Slip and falls – especially in crowded retail stores
  • Winter sports injuries – skiing, snowboarding, and icy sidewalks all pose a threat

Take precautions in the kitchen, keep your tree hydrated, don’t overload outlets, and ensure walkways are safe—whether you’re shopping or shoveling.

OUIs: Don’t Let a Poor Decision Ruin the Season

Holiday parties and spontaneous get-togethers often include alcohol. It’s easy to assume you’re “fine to drive,” but that assumption can carry serious consequences.

Whether you’re 21 or 51, have a plan:

  • Designate a sober driver before heading out
  • Use rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft
  • Stay over at a friend’s house
  • Ask for help—there’s no shame in making the safe call

Talk to Your Adult Kids Before They Go Out

If your college-age kids are coming home for the holidays, now’s the time to have that conversation—again.

Remind them:

  • Always have a sober ride
  • Don’t drive if they’ve had even a few drinks
  • Know what to do if they’re pulled over

They’re adults, but they still look to you for guidance. Share the Top Three Common Mistakes People Make in OUI Cases and help them avoid one of their own.

Legal Trouble Can Disrupt the Holidays

An OUI isn’t the only thing that can go wrong this season. Holiday stress, packed stores, and alcohol can lead to unexpected legal issues such as:

  • Shoplifting accusations
  • Disorderly conduct or fights
  • Weather-related car accidents

If you or a loved one runs into legal trouble, it doesn’t have to ruin your holiday. Contant Law is here to help you navigate the legal process calmly and confidently.

Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead, Stay Safe, and Enjoy the Season

This time of year should be full of warmth, not worry. A little preparation can go a long way toward avoiding accidents, arrests, or worse.

We wish you a joyful, peaceful holiday season. But just in case—

Put Contant in your contacts: (617) 227-8383

We’re here if you need us.