The holiday season has drawn to a close and hopefully we can look back on this year's festivities with fondness. But as jovial as the holiday season can be, this time of year also contains no less than four of the most dangerous holiday periods of the year for motor vehicle travel. The days on or around Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Christmas and New Year's Day have proven especially hazardous.

There are a variety of factors that contribute to the uptick in accidents during these holiday periods. As you may have guessed, alcohol plays a large role in the accident rate on New Year's Day. But according to a study conducted by an insurance company, Christmastime accidents can often be attributed to stress and heavy traffic, which leads to aggressive driving and even road rage.

It is nothing but unfortunate if your holiday season was marred by an accident on the road. And if you or a family member suffered an injury in the accident, you may be facing the new year having to go through the process of recovery. Medical expenses for emergency and hospital care can quickly add up. What's more, it is sometimes difficult to gauge how much time and money you will have to dedicate for your recovery in the coming months or even years.

Therefore, before filing a claim with an insurance company or a civil suit against a liable party, it is important that all of your potential expenses are taken into account. A Rhode Island personal injury attorney could help you assess your present and future needs. Once you determine the extents of your costs, the attorney may be able to help you pursue appropriate compensation.