Holiday Traffic & Motorcycle Accidents in Florida: Why December Is One of the Riskiest Months

For many people, December in Florida means holiday lights, visitors from out of state, and packed roads. For motorcyclists, it also means something else: a higher risk of serious crashes.

Unlike northern states where winter cuts the riding season short, Florida riders are on the road all year. That means when holiday traffic ramps up, so does the danger. In 2023 alone, motorcycles were involved in more than 9,500 crashes statewide, with over 600 deaths, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. December’s combination of tourism, celebrations, and early darkness can make those numbers even worse.

If you were hurt in a December motorcycle crash, you didn’t cause the chaos on Florida’s roads. You deserve answers, medical care, and fair compensation.

How Holiday Traffic Raises the Risk of Motorcycle Accidents in Florida

Increased Seasonal Tourism and Congestion

Florida roads get noticeably busier in December. Snowbirds return, families visit from out of state, and theme parks, beaches, and shopping centers see a surge in traffic.

For riders, that means:

• More out-of-state drivers unfamiliar with local roads and traffic patterns
• More lane changes, last-second turns, and sudden stops
• More chances that a driver simply doesn’t see a motorcycle in dense traffic

Holiday traffic motorcycle crashes often start with a driver who looks once, but not twice, before pulling out or changing lanes. In that split second, a motorcyclist can be hit, forced to lay the bike down, or thrown from the motorcycle.

Higher Rates of DUI During the Holidays

December is also peak season for impaired driving. Office parties, family gatherings, and New Year’s celebrations translate into more drivers getting behind the wheel after drinking.

For motorcyclists, impaired drivers are especially dangerous because:

• Alcohol and drugs slow reaction time
• Drunk drivers are more likely to drift across lanes or misjudge distance
• A motorcycle’s smaller size makes it even harder for an impaired driver to spot and avoid

A drunk driver who might “just” cause a fender-bender with another car can cause life-changing injuries when the victim is on a motorcycle.

Earlier Sunsets and Reduced Visibility

Even in Florida, December brings shorter days and longer nights. Riders who commute after work or run evening errands do much more of their riding in low-light conditions.

That creates extra risk:

• Headlights and holiday lights create glare, which can hide a motorcycle in traffic
• Drivers have a harder time judging speed and distance at night
• Dark clothing and unlit bikes are nearly invisible until it’s too late

Good December motorcycle safety means assuming other drivers can’t see you—using high-visibility gear, keeping your lights in top shape, and riding defensively.

Distracted and Stressed Drivers

The holidays are stressful. People are thinking about gifts, juggling schedules, and responding to texts about plans. That stress shows up on the road.

Common holiday distractions include:

• Texting directions or “running late” messages
• Fiddling with GPS or music
• Kids arguing in the back seat
• Rushing from store to store

When a driver’s eyes and mind are off the road—even for a moment—it’s often a motorcyclist who pays the price.

December Motorcycle Safety Tips for Florida Riders

Make Yourself Impossible to Ignore

• Wear high-visibility or reflective gear
• Use your headlight, even in the daytime
• Avoid lingering in blind spots—pass decisively and safely

Adjust for Conditions

• Slow down in heavy traffic, at night, or in holiday shopping areas
• Leave extra following distance so you can react to sudden stops
• Watch driveways, parking lot exits, and intersections where drivers may pull out quickly

Plan Your Routes and Timing

When possible, avoid peak shopping and travel times. Choose routes with better lighting and fewer intersections. Consider skipping the bike entirely on the biggest party nights (Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve) if traffic feels out of control.

Even with perfect December motorcycle safety habits, you can’t eliminate all risk. If a careless or impaired driver hits you, Florida law allows you to seek compensation for your injuries, lost income, and more.

What to Do After a December Motorcycle Accident in Florida

1. Get Medical Care Immediately

Even if you feel “okay,” adrenaline can mask serious injuries. Go to the ER or urgent care and follow all medical advice. This protects your health and creates a medical record linking your injuries to the crash.

2. Call Law Enforcement and Report the Crash

Make sure police respond and file a report. Be honest and factual, but don’t guess about what happened. That report often becomes crucial evidence when proving fault later.

3. Gather Evidence at the Scene (If You Can)

If you’re physically able:

• Take photos of your bike, the other vehicle, skid marks, and road conditions
• Photograph any visible injuries
• Get names and contact information for witnesses

If you can’t do this yourself, a family member or friend can sometimes help once you’re stable.

4. Avoid Talking to Insurance Companies Alone

Insurance adjusters—especially for the at-fault driver—may call quickly, sounding friendly. Remember, their job is to pay as little as possible. Politely decline recorded statements and don’t accept any quick settlement offers before talking with a lawyer.

Why Legal Help Matters After a Holiday Motorcycle Crash

Motorcycle accidents in Florida are different from regular car crashes:

• Motorcycles are not covered by Florida’s no-fault PIP system
• Your injuries are often more severe and long-lasting
• Insurance companies may try to blame you or argue you “assumed the risk”

A seasoned motorcycle accident attorney can investigate the crash, work with experts, deal with insurance companies, and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

If you’d like to learn more about how these cases work, you can review the firm’s dedicated Motorcycle Accidents Attorney page.

Hurt in a December Motorcycle Crash? We’re Here to Help.

You didn’t cause the holiday rush, the crowded roads, or another driver’s bad decisions. You shouldn’t have to carry the burden alone.

At Nation Law, we offer:

• Free case evaluations
• No upfront fees – we only get paid if we recover compensation for you
• Compassionate, client-centered representation when life has been turned upside down

Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule a free case review. You trusted us. We’re honored to fight for you.