Study reveals the most dangerous day to drive during holiday season

This browser does not support the video element.

DAYTON — The day before Christmas Eve is the most dangerous day to drive, according to a study.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

As reported on News Center 7 at 5:30, holiday traffic and distracted drivers are the main reasons why traveling on Dec. 23 is risky, according to Nationwide Insurance.

If a driver is distracted just for 15 seconds while driving at 45 miles per hour, it’s the same as driving blind for the length of a little more than three football fields, according to the study.

“There’s so many texting while driving. I’d say one out of 10 people I see are texting and driving,” Robert Jones of Dayton said.

TRENDING STORIES:

Jones is a construction worker but is picking up Uber shifts to make extra money during the holidays.

He said he’s used to driving during holiday traffic.

“It’s ridiculous. People face down in their phones while they’re driving over the speed limit. I had so many close calls I lost count,” Jones said.

He said being a safe and attentive driver is a must.

“Me doing Uber, if I get, my car in a wreck, body shops are not in no hurry and I’ll be down until the car is fixed. I don’t have another car to use,” Jones said.

News Center 7 will continue to follow this story.

[SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]