50,000+ injuries resulting from traffic crashes predicted for holiday weekend nationwide
As Labor Day weekend approaches, the American Red Cross of Utah is calling on all Utahns to prioritize safety and be prepared for emergencies while traveling this holiday. With nearly 40 million Americans hitting the roads for their getaways, the National Safety Council (NSC) released analysis today projecting a staggering 457 deaths and more than 50,000 injuries from preventable traffic crashes nationwide during the holiday weekend.
Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region, stresses the importance of readiness before embarking on any journey. “We want everyone to enjoy their Labor Day weekend, but it’s crucial that drivers take precautions and remain alert on the roads, especially with increased traffic and potential hazards,” she said.
With Utah expected to be a top holiday destination, even local driving can pose challenges. The Red Cross advises drivers to always have an emergency kit in their vehicles. “Emergencies can occur at any time. Being equipped with the right supplies and information can help you navigate through any crisis,” Ruster said.
Prepare an emergency kit for your car
The Red Cross recommends stocking your car’s emergency kit with essential items such as high-protein snacks, water, a first aid kit, flashlight, small battery-operated radio, blanket, jumper cables, map, cellphone charger and an emergency contact card containing names and phone numbers.
Labor Day weekend ranks among the deadliest holidays for motor vehicle fatal crashes, trailing only behind Fourth of July and Thanksgiving, according to NSC data. NSC’s analysis indicates that 457 lives could be lost in preventable traffic crashes over the Labor Day weekend, with over 50,000 injuries resulting from vehicle accidents.
Mark Chung, executive vice president of safety leadership and advocacy at NSC, stated, “Preventable traffic crashes claim far too many lives each year, and by following simple safety measures, we can all do our part to ensure a safer journey for everyone. Let’s put safety first so we all make it home to our loved ones this Labor Day weekend.”
Red Cross safe driving tips:
- Be well-rested and alert; use seat belts, observe speed limits and follow all traffic laws. Make sure your headlights are clean and turned on at dusk or in inclement weather.
- Avoid drinking and driving. Designate a sober driver.
- Focus on the road. Avoid distractions like cell phones.
- Exercise caution in work zones, as many construction projects may be underway.
- Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
Best and worst time to hit the road
Travelers starting their drive on Thursday or Friday before Labor Day should expect heavy traffic with lots of commuters. To avoid congestion, consider leaving before the morning rush hour or in the evening.
INRIX, a transportation-data provider, notes that the worst traffic on Thursday is likely between 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and on Friday between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. On Saturday, the busiest times are expected between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. For the return trip on Monday, traffic is expected to be heavy all day, especially between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m.
Emergency information at your fingertips
Prepare for the unexpected by downloading free Red Cross apps. The Red Cross Emergency app provides real-time weather alerts, open shelter information and expert disaster advice. The Red Cross First Aid app offers quick access to guidance on handling common injuries and detailed instructions for emergencies like performing lifesaving CPR. Red Cross apps are compatible with smartphones, Apple Watch and Android wearable devices. Search for “American Red Cross” in app stores or visit redcross.org/apps.
Learn more about the National Safety Council
As America’s leading nonprofit safety advocate for nearly 110 years, the National Safety Council is a mission-based organization working to eliminate the leading causes of preventable death and injury, focusing its efforts on the workplace and roadways. For more information, go to nsc.org. For additional Labor Day holiday fatality estimates and motor vehicle data and research, visit injuryfacts.nsc.org.
About the American Red Cross The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
