Well, Memorial Day is nearly here, marking the traditional kick-off to the summer season. Many of us will be hitting the highways this weekend to enjoy the 3-day weekend. But if you’re driving, please be careful. It turns out that all days are not created equal, especially when it comes to driving.
Be Cautious Driving During Memorial Day Weekend
As Mark Vallet writes, statistics clearly show there are a number of days each year where it’s just more dangerous out on the road. And it comes as no surprise that Memorial Day driving statistics are the deadliest. In fact, Mark notes that of the 10 most dangerous days to drive, number 1 is Memorial Day.
This holiday is often considered the start of summer, and in most years, it is a bad day to drive. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 400 people a year die during a typical Memorial Day weekend, and on average there are 13.1 percent more traffic deaths than on a non-holiday weekend.
Booze is a big factor; 44 percent of all traffic fatalities that occur over Memorial Day are alcohol-related.
It is a big driving weekend as well. AAA projected last year that 36.1 million drivers would drive at least 50 miles from home during Memorial Day Weekend. Too many cars on the road, combined with booze-fueled parties and barbecues, results in more accidents and more deaths.
Don’t Take Chances
Yes – you can enjoy the holiday weekend. And Memorial Day is a special day to commemorate the people who died while serving in the country’s armed forces. But please drive cautiously and responsibly.
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