---

Using Safety Belts Can Save Your Life Over the Labor Day Weekend

25 August 2000

USING SAFETY BELTS CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE 
OVER THE LABOR DAY WEEKEND

 ITASCA, IL.  The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that, during the Labor Day holiday, approximately 354 people involved in motor vehicle crashes will be saved because they wore their seat belts.  The amount of traffic on our nation*s highways will increase significantly over the holiday weekend. For many families with school-age children it is the last chance to get away.
 NSC President Jerry Scannell said *You should start any trip, whatever the distance, by buckling up everyone in your car, and remember that motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of deaths to children and young adults. Make sure children are properly restrained in the back seat.*
 The NSC also estimates that 25,500 people will suffer nonfatal, disabling injuries and 481 people will die over the Labor Day weekend. *If everyone were to buckle up, we would save an additional 129 lives,* said Scannell.
 In addition to wearing a safety belt, the Council urges motorists:
* Don*t drink and drive. Nearly 40 percent of all traffic fatalities involve an intoxicated or alcohol-impaired driver or non-motorist.
* Allow enough travel time for frequent breaks on longer trips. Drowsy drivers are an increasing problem in our fast-paced society. Remember, drowsiness can reduce reaction time almost as much as drinking.
This year's Labor Day holiday weekend officially begins at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, September 1 and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, September 4.