Afternoon rush hour often brings long lines of cars and sudden stops across Baton Rouge. Many drivers feel tired, stressed, and ready to get home. These everyday moments set the stage for increased crash risk in the region.
According to the 2024 TomTom Traffic Index, a six-mile trip in Baton Rouge takes about 11 minutes and 47 seconds. The average speed for this trip is about 30.5 miles per hour. Travel becomes slower during peak hours. In the evening rush, the same trip takes 16 minutes and 32 seconds at 21.7 miles per hour. In the morning rush, it takes about 12 minutes and 7 seconds at 29.7 miles per hour.
Related: Even a 1 mph Change in Speed Could Get You Jail Time
These travel times match Louisiana crash trends.
CARTS shows that many crashes happen from noon to early evening. Afternoon traffic grows heavier as schools release students and workers head home. Drivers see more braking, lane changes, and merging during this period. Fatigue also increases in the afternoon. Tired drivers react more slowly in busy traffic. Distractions from phones and navigation tools add more risk.
Crash patterns also shift on weekends.
Injury crashes drop on Saturdays and Sundays. Fatal crashes rise during those same days. Almost half of all deadly crashes in 2024 happened from Friday to Sunday. Fatal crashes occur more often in the evening and early morning. Morning hours show the lowest share of deadly crashes. Evening and before-midnight hours show the highest share. This pattern grows stronger on weekends. Fewer total crashes do not always lead to fewer deaths.
Related: A Guide to Safe Travels During Shopping Season
Final Thoughts
These patterns help explain when driving becomes most dangerous. Afternoon hours bring more injury crashes due to heavy traffic. Weekend nights and early mornings bring more deadly crashes due to fatigue and risky behavior. Giving yourself more time, avoiding phone use, and keeping extra space between cars can improve safety (and avoid a fender bender).
If you or someone you love is hurt in a car wreck, Call Corzo at (225) 351-0459 because help, respect, and justice are only one call away.