NSC: 7 Driving Safety Tips for Memorial Day Weekend

An estimated 409 people may be killed and 47,000 seriously injured in motor vehicle accidents during Memorial Day weekend this year, according to the National Safety Council.

The number of fatalities is expected to be 12 percent higher than the average number of deaths, 364, that occurred in the past six years. The three-day holiday period begins at 6 p.m. ET Friday, May 26 and ends at 11:59 p.m. ET Monday, May 29.

“Memorial Day should mark the start of summer – not the start of another deadly driving season,” said Deborah A.P. Hersman, president, CEO of NSC in a statement. “Paying attention, slowing down and being courteous can ensure you and your fellow travelers make it to picnics, beaches and BBQs rather than emergency rooms.”

The holiday injury and fatality estimates are part of a nationwide upward trend. Traffic deaths increased 6 percent in 2016 and 14 percent in 2014 – the steepest two-year jump since 1964, according to the NSC.

The organization released seven tips which include basic reminders as well as using vehicle features to ensure a safe holiday weekend. Click through the slideshow to view them.

Buckle Up

Wear a seat belt on every trip. About 159 lives may be saved during the holiday with seat belt use, according to the NSC.

Use Child Safety Seats

Make sure children are restrained in safety seats that are appropriate for their height, age and weight.

Assign a Designated Driver

Designate an alcohol and drug-free driver or arrange alternate transportation. Impairment begins with the first drink.

Take Breaks While Traveling

Get plenty of sleep and take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.

Don’t Get Distracted

Never use a cell phone behind the wheel, even hands-free.

Don’t Let Teens Drive

Do not allow teens to drive with their friends. A single young passenger can increase a teen driver’s fatal crash risk 44 percent, the NSC estimates.

This article retrieved from EHSToday.com