August is one of the most dangerous months to drive in Louisiana, and national data backs it up. Crash records show August is the second deadliest month of the year on American roads, just behind October. I see the results of this every late summer, and I want you to understand what drives up the danger this time of year so your family can stay safer, here in Baton Rouge and across Louisiana.
Why Does August Rank So High Nationally?
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tracks crash deaths by month across the country. In 2024, August recorded 3,611 traffic deaths, just behind October’s 3,620. Both months sit far above February, the safest month, which saw only 2,710 deaths. Warm weather, more travel, and longer daylight hours all mean more cars on the road, and more chances for a serious crash.
Does Hurricane Season Make Louisiana Roads More Dangerous?
Louisiana drivers face a danger that most of the country does not. The National Hurricane Center reports that Atlantic hurricane season peaks around September 10, with the busiest stretch running from mid-August through mid-October. That means August already sits at the edge of the most active weeks of storm season. Heavy rain, sudden evacuation traffic, and drivers rushing to beat a storm all add real risk to our roads that drivers in other states simply do not face.
Why Does Back to School Mean More Risk on the Road?
August is also when school starts again across Louisiana. New and young drivers head back to campus, often driving themselves for the first time after a summer with looser routines. The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission reported 70 fatal crashes involving drivers ages 15 to 20 and 85 fatal crashes involving drivers ages 21 to 24 in 2024. Add in school buses, crossing guards, and kids walking or biking to class, and August brings a real jump in everyday driving risk for every family in our parishes.
Why Do Drunk Driving Crashes Rise Around Labor Day?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration runs its “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign every year from August 19 through September 7, right around the Labor Day holiday. NHTSA has stated plainly that drunk driving deaths typically rise during this holiday period. More cookouts, more travel, and more parties often mean more impaired drivers sharing the road with the rest of us.
What Should You Do If You Are Hurt in a Crash This Month?
If you or someone you love has been hurt in a wreck anywhere in East Baton Rouge Parish, St. George Parish, or Ascension Parish, you do not have to sort out fault on your own. Our Baton Rouge Car Accident Lawyers page walks through what to do right after a crash and how we help gather evidence and deal with insurance companies. If the other driver was impaired, our Baton Rouge Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys page explains how Louisiana law, including dram shop claims, can apply to your case.
A few things to keep in mind this time of year:
- Give yourself extra following distance in back-to-school traffic and near buses.
- Check the forecast before long drives during hurricane season.
- Plan a safe ride home before Labor Day gatherings that involve alcohol.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is August really the most dangerous month to drive in Louisiana?
Nationally, August is the second deadliest month on record, and Louisiana adds extra risk on top of that from hurricane season, back-to-school traffic, and Labor Day travel.
Does hurricane season really make Louisiana roads more dangerous?
Yes. Storm season activity picks up sharply from mid-August through mid-October, bringing heavy rain, flooded roads, and evacuation traffic that most other states do not deal with.
What should I do after a car accident this time of year?
Get medical care first, document the scene if you safely can, and talk to a lawyer before giving a statement to any insurance company.
If you have been hurt in a crash, call my office today at (225) 535-4831. You can also reach out any time, day or night, through our 24/7 chat to talk about what happened, or reach our team directly here.
Dignity Prevails.