WASHINGTON — This Thanksgiving season, nearly 82 million Americans are anticipated to travel at least 50 miles from their homes, reflecting a rise of 1.6 million compared to the previous year. The majority, about 90%, or approximately 73 million travelers, are expected to choose driving over flying, particularly in light of the recent cancellations affecting air travel.
The National Safety Council (NSC) has projected that 439 people may lose their lives in traffic incidents across the United States during the Thanksgiving weekend. This figure represents a 12% reduction from last year’s forecast, marking the most significant decline among all holiday predictions for 2023. Ken Kolosh, an NSC statistics manager, expressed optimism over the drop, noting that Thanksgiving is generally recognized as one of the safer holidays for road travel.
Each year, the NSC utilizes data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System to estimate potential traffic fatalities during this holiday. This analysis includes all road users, such as pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicle occupants. The average number of fatalities on Thanksgiving Day in 2023 was about 112—approximately 40 fewer than the daily average observed during Labor Day, often considered one of the more perilous holidays for drivers.
Kolosh explained that the unique nature of Thanksgiving, typically a single-day event, contributes to its comparatively lower traffic death rates. In contrast, summer holidays like Labor Day and the Fourth of July often span multiple days, leading to increased travel and higher risks. Improvements in road safety have also played a role in reducing fatalities, even as more vehicles make their way to holiday destinations.
Despite the optimistic predictions regarding safety, the NSC warns of persistent risks on the road. The incidence of drunk driving and speeding tends to escalate during holiday travel periods. In 2023, roughly 30% of traffic-related deaths involved at least one driver under the influence of alcohol, a statistic that rose to 35% during Thanksgiving. Speeding-related fatalities, which accounted for 29% of deaths in non-holiday periods, surged to 37% over the Thanksgiving weekend.
To help ensure safety during travels, Kolosh stresses the importance of vigilance and precaution. Drivers are urged to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to allow for appropriate reaction time in hazardous situations. If alcohol consumption is part of holiday plans, designating a sober driver is crucial for preventing impaired driving. Additionally, while seatbelt usage has reached about 91%, achieving a 100% rate this holiday could potentially save around 100 lives.
As millions prepare to gather with friends and family, prioritizing safety on the roads remains essential. With careful planning and adherence to road safety guidelines, travelers can contribute to making this Thanksgiving a safe experience for everyone.