Stay Safe This Memorial Day. It is a time of remembrance, reflection, and renewal. As we honor those who sacrificed in military service, we also gather with loved ones for parades, cookouts, and the unofficial start of summer. But amid the celebration comes risk. Memorial Day Weekend is one of the most dangerous times on the road or outdoors.
It also marks the beginning of the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer,” a period from Memorial Day to Labor Day when traffic-related deaths spike, especially among teen drivers. Understanding the risks and how to avoid them is critical to protect your loved ones and truly honor the spirit of the holiday.
Why Memorial Day Weekend Is So Dangerous
The National Safety Council (NSC) projects that approximately 443 people may die in preventable traffic crashes during the 2025 Memorial Day holiday weekend. This represents a 6% increase from last year’s estimate and is consistent with Memorial Day being a period of higher traffic deaths compared to other weekends. It ranks as one of the most hazardous holidays on U.S. roads. This elevated risk stems from several factors:
- Increased road travel
- Alcohol consumption
- Distracted and fatigued driving
- More motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians on the roads
Ohio follows this national trend. In 2023, the Ohio State Highway Patrol reported a decrease in fatalities from the prior year, but the numbers still signal concern:
- 14 deaths in 13 fatal crashes
- 518 OVI arrests
- 4,316 seatbelt citations
- Over 16,399 traffic enforcement contacts
The 100 Deadliest Days of Summer
The “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” refers to the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day—a time when traffic fatalities consistently spike across the U.S. Warmer weather, school breaks, and summer vacations bring more drivers onto the road, often with increased distractions, impaired driving, and longer travel distances. This seasonal surge affects everyone: drivers, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians alike.
While teen drivers are especially vulnerable due to inexperience, the risk extends to all age groups and road users. More outdoor events, alcohol consumption, and congested highways create a perfect storm for accidents. As personal injury attorneys, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly lives can change during this high-risk period—and we’re here to help you stay aware, informed, and protected.
As personal injury attorneys in Toledo, we see the effects of these seasonal dangers firsthand. Our legal team understands the risks and consequences, and we want to help you stay safe.
Common Memorial Day Accidents
Car Accidents. Car accidents remain the most common and deadly incidents over Memorial Day. Congestion, long-distance travel, and late-night driving all contribute. In many cases, crashes involve speeding or alcohol. If you are searching for the best car accident lawyer near me, our Toledo personal injury attorneys are here to help when collisions occur.
Motorcycle Accidents. May is also Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Memorial Day kicks off the season for riders, but it also leads to increased risk. Drivers often fail to yield or spot motorcycles at intersections.
So, what percent of motorcycle crashes in Ohio result in injury? The Ohio Department of Public Safety reports that over 80% of motorcycle accidents result in injury or death.
Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents. Bicyclists and pedestrians are more active in late May, but many drivers are unprepared to share the road. Distracted driving is a leading cause of serious injury and fatalities among these vulnerable road users.
Boating Accidents. Ohio’s lakes and rivers get crowded over Memorial Day. Alcohol, inexperience, and failure to use life jackets lead to preventable injuries and drownings. Only experienced boaters should be at the helm; everyone should wear a properly fitted life vest.
Slip and Fall Accidents. Wet decks, pool areas, uneven patios, and crowded event spaces can quickly become hazardous. If you’ve been injured due to negligence, a slip and fall lawyer can help you seek fair compensation.
Burns and Firework Injuries. Backyard barbecues and fireworks are holiday staples and leading causes of ER visits. Children are especially at risk. Burns and eye injuries are common, often due to sparklers or bottle rockets.
Top Safety Tips to Avoid Memorial Day Injuries
- Don’t Drink and Drive. Designate a sober driver, use a rideshare service, or stay overnight. Alcohol is a factor in nearly 40% of all traffic-related deaths during Memorial Day weekend.
- Buckle up. Wearing a seatbelt reduces the risk of fatal injury by 45%. More than 4,000 seatbelt citations were issued in Ohio over Memorial Day weekend in 2023 alone.
- Plan Your Trip Strategically. Avoid traveling during peak traffic hours (late Friday and Monday afternoons). Use real-time navigation apps and follow Ohio’s hands-free law while using your phone for directions.
- Look Twice for Motorcycles. Motorcycles are harder to see and more vulnerable. Check your blind spots and maintain extra following distance. Motorcyclists should always wear helmets and bright clothing.
- Use Fireworks Responsibly. Follow local laws. Keep a water source nearby, supervise children, and never relight malfunctioning fireworks. Designate an adult to monitor fire safety if you’re hosting a party.
- Grill Safely Position grills away from structures and overhangs. Never leave them unattended. Keep pets and children at least 3 feet away. Clean grease traps regularly to prevent flare-ups.
- Avoid Fatigue on Long Drives. Share driving responsibilities. Schedule breaks every 2 hours and avoid late-night travel. Fatigued driving mimics impaired driving in risk and reaction time.
When to Call an Injury Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured during Memorial Day weekend—whether in a car crash, motorcycle accident, slip and fall, or another incident caused by negligence—legal representation can make a significant difference. At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault, our personal injury attorneys are here to help you confidently take the next step.
You may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical bills
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Permanent disability or rehabilitation
Whether you’re searching for a slip and fall attorney, motorcycle accident lawyer, or car accident attorney near you, our legal team has decades of experience securing results for injury victims. We understand how overwhelming the aftermath of an accident can be—and we’re ready to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Schedule your free consultation today to get the answers and advocacy you need.
Injured in a Crash? Our Attorneys Can Help
At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault, we understand the trauma of an unexpected injury. Our Toledo personal injury attorneys team has recovered millions for clients across Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan. From Defiance to Fremont, Monroe to Mansfield, we proudly serve our communities with skill and compassion.
If you’re searching for accident attorneys near me or personal injury attorneys Toledo, contact us for a free consultation. We will listen to your story, review your case, and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Speak with a Personal Injury Attorney Near You
If you or someone you love has been injured in a car crash, motorcycle accident, or slip and fall, don’t face the legal process alone. At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault, our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights of injury victims and pursuing the compensation they deserve. With decades of proven results and a commitment to client care, our team is here to stand by your side.
We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis—you won’t pay unless we win your case. Our firm is available 24/7. Call 419-843-6663 or use our secure online form to schedule your consultation today.
Stay Safe and Be Prepared
Memorial Day weekend is a time for honoring heroes, enjoying family, and welcoming the start of summer. But it’s also a time to stay alert. Increased travel, outdoor activities, and celebrations increase the risk of accidents. Plan, drive responsibly, and keep safety at the top of your mind—whether lighting the grill, heading out on the road, or watching fireworks.
Together, we can make this Memorial Day weekend safer and more meaningful for everyone. And if the unexpected happens, GT&B is here to help you every step of the way.
