NSC Estimates High Number of Roadway Fatalities During Thanksgiving Holiday
The NSC projects record high roadway fatalities during the four-day Thanksgiving holiday period.
- By Nikki Johnson-Bolden
- Nov 20, 2020
The National Safety Council (NSC) announced on November 19 that it estimates about 485 people may be killed on the roads during the Thanksgiving holiday.
It is also predicted that another 55,300 people will become injured in crashes. These numbers will be the highest the U.S. has experienced since 2008 if they come true. Despite there being less traffic due to the coronavirus pandemic, NSC’s monthly analysis has shown that roads have become deadlier.
The Thanksgiving holiday estimate was given a wider statistical confidence interval than usual because of trends in 2020.
“We’ve noted several times this year that open roads should not be an open invitation for reckless driving,” said Lorraine M. Martin, president and CEO of the NSC. “We urge drivers to remain vigilant about their own safety if they decide to travel. If every driver would slow down, buckle up, drive sober and pay attention, we could have a holiday of zero fatalities, which is the only acceptable number.”
The NSC recommends that drivers avoid driving while tired and limit their distractions while driving. More information can be found at nsc.org.
About the Author
Nikki Johnson-Bolden is an Associate Content Editor for Occupational Health & Safety.