Think Christmas music is all about spreading joy and good vibes? Think again! A new study from Insuranceopedia reveals that some of your favorite holiday hits could actually make driving more dangerous. The culprit? High beats per minute (BPM), which can subconsciously influence your driving habits.
Songs with over 120 BPM are linked to riskier driving behaviors, such as speeding, abrupt braking, and even losing focus. And which song tops the “dangerous Christmas carol” list? None other than Gene Autry’s “Frosty the Snowman” with a staggering 172 BPM. This classic holiday tune might be better suited for a festive dance floor than the driver’s seat!
Here’s the full list of holiday songs that might speed up your heart rate—and your car:
- “Frosty the Snowman” – Gene Autry (172 BPM)
- “All I Want for Christmas Is You” – Mariah Carey (150 BPM)
- “Feliz Navidad” – José Feliciano (149 BPM)
- “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” – The Jackson 5 (147 BPM)
- “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” – John Lennon, Yoko Ono, and The Plastic Ono Band (146 BPM)
- “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” – Frank Sinatra (143 BPM)
- “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (142 BPM)
- “I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday” – Wizzard (140 BPM)
- “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” – Judy Garland (137 BPM)
- “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” – The Jackson 5 (129 BPM)
So, what’s the takeaway? Next time you’re setting your holiday playlist for a road trip, maybe opt for slower-paced classics like Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas.” Your fellow drivers—and your insurance premiums—will thank you.
Safe driving and happy holidays! 🎄