The National Safety Council predicts that approximately 418 traffic fatalities and 44,700 injuries requiring medical assistance could occur from car crashes during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
The council estimates that 153 lives will be saved during the same weekend however, due to people wearing their safety belts.
"A hallmark of Thanksgiving is traveling to be with family and friends, but whether it involves a short drive or a long road trip, the same risks apply," said Deborah A.P. Hersman, NSC president and CEO, in a press statement. "Sensible precautions can make the difference between a safe visit home or an unwelcome trip to the emergency room."
The National Safety Council is a nonprofit organization whose goal is to save lives by preventing injuries and deaths in homes, on the road, at work, and in communities through "leadership, research, education and advocacy."
NSC wants everyone to remember a couple of safety tips to follow in order to stay safe on the roads this weekend.
-Buckle up no matter how short the trip is, even when traveling just a few minutes away
-Plan ahead, leave earlier than you normal would to get somewhere if possible, and drive defensively, especially during bad weather conditions
-Never drink and drive, and if you do plan on drinking at a holiday event, designate a sober driver before heading out or figure out an alternate transportation option
-Secure all children in size-appropriate restraints before heading out anywhere
-Don't use any electronic devices, including hands free, while behind the wheel of your vehicle, as it increases the chance of a crash
The Thanksgiving holiday weekend technically began on Wednesday, Nov. 26 at 6:00 p.m. and ends at 11:59 p.m., Sunday, November 30.
All of us at AutoWorldNews hope you have a safe and happy holiday weekend, and remember to buckle up!
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