National Safety Council Predicts 400 Fatalities in Car Crashes During Labor Day weekend

ITASCA, IL -- Aug. 25, 2014: The National Safety Council estimates 395 people will be killed and an additional 42,300 will be injured in car crashes during the Labor Day holiday weekend. The period begins at 6 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29, and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 1. An evaluation of recent Labor Day holiday period fatality estimates is shown in the table below.

Evaluation of Recent Labor Day Holiday Period Estimates 

t also is estimated that 144 lives may be saved this Labor Day holiday period by buckling up.

"Labor Day weekend marks the end of summer activities – it should be a time of celebration," said Deborah A.P. Hersman president and CEO of NSC. "Unfortunately this weekend will be a time of tragedy for hundreds of families that experience a preventable fatality on our roadways."

To ensure a safer Labor Day holiday weekend, NSC recommends drivers:

Refrain from using cell phones – handheld or hands-free – because there is no safe way to use a cell phone while driving Do not manipulate in-vehicle infotainment systems or electronic devices, including GPS systems, while the vehicle is in motion Make sure all passengers are buckled up and children are in safety seats appropriate for their age and size Allow plenty of travel time to avoid frustration and diminish the impulse to speed Drive defensively and exercise caution, especially during inclement weather Designate a non-drinking driver or plan for alternative transportation, such as a taxi