ITASCA, Ill., Nov. 20, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Safety Council estimates 417 people may be killed and another 47,500 may be seriously injured in car crashes during the upcoming Thanksgiving Day holiday period.i Compared to last year, the fatality estimate is down nearly 4%, which is in line with an estimated drop in overall motor vehicle deaths in the U.S. Alcohol is a persistent factor in fatal crashes. Historical trends show that ? on average ? more than one-third of deaths during the Thanksgiving holiday period involve alcohol-impaired drivers.
Since the day before Thanksgiving is known for its high volume of both travel and alcohol consumption, the Council is warning drivers to be particularly vigilant at the start of the holiday period, which runs from 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27, to 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1.
The Council also advises motorists not to drive under the influence of drugs, particularly as the decriminalization of cannabis continues in states throughout the U.S. and the widespread impact of the opioid crisis persists. Just like alcohol, the consumption of marijuana and opioid painkillers can impact judgement, reflexes and cognitive dexterity, increasing the risk of death and injury behind the wheel.
"Thanksgiving should be a time for family gatherings and good food, not the tragedy that a car crash can bring," said Lorraine M. Martin, president and CEO of the National Safety Council. "Let's work to keep each other safe this holiday by planning ahead and avoiding impaired driving. Making smart decisions will help protect all of us as we travel for celebrations and other activities."
In addition to urging sober, attentive driving during the Thanksgiving holiday period ? and throughout the year ? the Council advocates for all vehicle passengers to buckle up no matter what seating position they are in. An estimated 165 lives may be saved this Thanksgiving holiday period because vehicle occupants were wearing safety belts, and an additional 97 lives could be saved if everyone were to wear safety belts, according to the Council.
Additional tips for safe travel include:
Supplemental traffic fatality estimates information can be found here.
About the National Safety Council
The National Safety Council (nsc.org) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to eliminate preventable deaths at work, in homes and communities, and on the road through leadership, research, education and advocacy. Founded in 1913 and chartered by Congress, NSC advances this mission by partnering with businesses, government agencies, elected officials and the public in areas where we can make the most impact.
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i According to NSC analysis. "Serious injuries" are classified as those requiring medical attention.
SOURCE National Safety Council
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