500+ deaths and more than 57,000 injuries from traffic crashes predicted for holiday nationwide
With more than 71 million people expected to travel by car for Thanksgiving, the American Red Cross of Utah reminds motorists to drive attentively to ensure everyone makes it to the table safely. The National Safety Council (NSC) released an analysis today projecting that crowded roadways could result in over 500 traffic-related deaths and an estimated 57,000 injuries during Thanksgiving travel nationwide.
Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah & Southwest Wyoming Chapter, emphasized safety should be the top priority when driving to visit relatives or friends this Thanksgiving. “Before hitting the road this holiday season, ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and your route is planned ahead of time. Let’s all buckle up, drive responsibly and make Thanksgiving a time of joy, not regret,” he said.
With so many families traveling 50 miles or more this Thanksgiving, the Red Cross of Utah advises drivers to have an emergency kit in their vehicles this week and year-round. “You never know when an emergency can happen,” Smauldon said. “Having the right supplies and information can help you navigate through any emergency situation.”
Emergency car kit essentials
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. Visit redcross.org/kit for more information.
Thanksgiving is second only to the Fourth of July for fatal motor vehicle crashes, according to NSC data. NSC’s analysis indicates that 502 lives could be lost in preventable traffic crashes over the Thanksgiving holiday, with over 57,000 injuries resulting from vehicle accidents.
Mark Chung, NSC executive vice president of roadway practice, emphasized the dangers of impaired driving: “While a special emphasis is on a celebration such as Thanksgiving this time of year, it’s crucial to make safe choices before you hit the road every time. Choose to drive awake and sober or arrange an alternative mode of transportation; lives depend on it.”
Red Cross Thanksgiving safe driving tips
- Travel safely by adjusting your speed to match road conditions.
- Avoid distractions, especially texting – it’s like driving blindfolded.
- Always buckle up – it’s a lifesaver.
- Ensure children are secured in appropriate seats for their age and size.
- Never drive under the influence – designate a sober driver.
Emergency information at your fingertips
Stay ready for unforeseen events with the free Red Cross apps. The Emergency app offers live weather updates, shelter details and expert disaster advice, while the First Aid app provides instant guidance on managing injuries, including lifesaving CPR instructions. Search “American Red Cross” in your app store 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 Thanksgiving 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.
