2024-11-19 16:25:00
As the holidays approach, bringing family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and increased travel, road safety should be a priority.
From Thanksgiving through New Year’s, traffic fatalities increase, with car travel being the greatest risk. Nearly 104 million people are projected to drive to their destinations during the holidays. Interestingly, recent studies show that more than half (51%) of travelers plan to drive, while only 13% plan to fly.
Why is the risk so high? The holidays often involve long trips, winter weather, and alcohol-related celebrations, making traveling by car—the most dangerous form of transportation in terms of passenger miles traveled—even more dangerous. Common causes of holiday accidents include drowsy or distracted driving, drunk driving, bad weather, and heavy traffic.
Hispanic and Latino communities are particularly affectedexperiencing increases every year for 10 years in passenger vehicle accident deaths, while other groups have seen a decrease.
The good news: These tragedies are preventable. The NSC offers these tips to keep drivers and their families safe during the holiday season:
- Check if your vehicle has pending safety recalls: More than 57 million vehicles on the road today have unresolved safety recalls, posing serious risks.
- Some vehicles have “Park Outside” or “Do Not Drive” warnings, often related to airbag recalls, which increase the risk of failure and endanger drivers and passengers. Visit check to protect. org / es, to quickly check if your vehicle has pending recalls: repairs are free at any dealership.
- Wear your seat belt: No exceptions. Make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained, regardless of distance.
- Avoid distractions: Cell phones continue to be one of the main distractions for drivers. Put it away, focus on the road, and remind passengers to do the same.
- Stay alert: Driving while drowsy is as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. Make sure you get plenty of rest before long trips and make stops regularly.
- Designate a sober driver: Alcohol-related accidents increase during the holidays. Never drive under the influence of alcohol; Plan ahead for a designated driver or alternative transportation if alcohol is part of your celebration.
By following these tips, we can make this holiday season safer for everyone, especially in the most vulnerable communities.
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#road #safety #priority #holidays
How do socioeconomic factors impact road safety in Hispanic and Latino communities during the holidays?
**Interview with Sarah Thompson, Road Safety Advocate**
**Editor:** Welcome, Sarah! With the holiday season approaching, we are seeing projected increases in traffic fatalities. Can you share your thoughts on the risks associated with holiday travel this year?
**Sarah Thompson:** Thank you for having me. Yes, the holiday season is indeed a critical time for road safety. Throughout the period from Thanksgiving to New Year’s, we see a significant uptick in traffic fatalities due to several factors, including increased travel volume and often hazardous weather conditions. This year, nearly 104 million people are expected to drive, which heightens the risks significantly.
**Editor:** It’s interesting that a majority of travelers prefer driving over flying. What do you think contributes to this trend?
**Sarah Thompson:** Several factors play into this preference. Driving offers flexibility, especially for families with children, and can sometimes be more cost-effective than flying. However, it also means longer hours on the road, which can lead to fatigue and distractions. Many travelers might underestimate the risks involved, particularly with elements like drowsy or impaired driving creeping in during celebrations.
**Editor:** You mentioned that Hispanic and Latino communities are particularly affected by increases in accident fatalities. Can you elaborate on that?
**Sarah Thompson:** Absolutely. Over the last decade, data has shown a concerning trend in rising deaths among Hispanic and Latino drivers when compared to other demographics, which have seen declines. This could stem from various factors, including socioeconomic influences, access to safety resources, and targeted outreach. It’s crucial to raise awareness in these communities about safe driving practices, especially during the holidays.
**Editor:** With so many factors at play, what are some of the key safety tips that the National Safety Council recommends for drivers this holiday season?
**Sarah Thompson:** The NSC offers some excellent advice. First, it’s imperative to check if your vehicle has any safety recalls before hitting the road. Over 57 million vehicles in the U.S. have unresolved recalls, which pose significant risks. Additionally, ensuring that everyone in the vehicle is buckled up, planning routes in advance to avoid distractions, and never driving under the influence of alcohol are essential steps. It’s also wise to allow for extra travel time given the potential for heavy traffic and adverse weather conditions.
**Editor:** Great insights, Sarah! what message would you like to leave our audience as they prepare for their holiday travels?
**Sarah Thompson:** I encourage everyone to prioritize safety this holiday season. Make informed choices, plan your trips carefully, and be aware of the surroundings on the road. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that we all return home safely to our loved ones. Enjoy the festivities, and drive safely!
**Editor:** Thank you, Sarah, for sharing your expertise on this important topic. Safe travels to everyone out there!
