Americans traditionally travel on the roads during major holidays in order to get to their destination, where they can spend time with family and friends, and engage in traditional holiday celebrations. Unfortunately, alcohol consumption is routinely a part of the holidays for many, many Americans; and over-indulgence in alcohol combined with driving a vehicle on the roads is a recipe for heartbreak.
Holiday Facts
Based on traffic fatality data obtained from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), Forbes compiled a list ranking six of our federal holidays by the average number of deaths; including the average percentage of fatalities which were alcohol-related. The DOT tracked the data since 1982, and deaths were counted for just the holiday itself, and not a holiday weekend or holiday time period.
The results proved interesting, in that many consider the New Year’s Day holiday the one traditionally celebrated with the most alcohol consumption. However, New Year’s Day ranked 6th in the number of fatalities, last on the list, with an average of 46 % of alcohol-related fatalities since 1982.
Fifth on the list was Christmas Day, with an average of 42% of alcohol related fatalities since 1982. Ranking fourth on the list of the highest percentage of alcohol-related fatalities was Memorial Day at 45%.
Next was Independence Day—the 4th of July—ranking third with 45% alcohol-related fatalities since 1982. Second on the list was Labor Day, also with an average of 45% of alcohol-related fatalities, but getting the higher ranking due to more fatalities which were not related to alcohol consumption.
Ranking No. 1 of the six major federal holidays that Americans celebrate annually was Thanksgiving Day, accounting for an average of 567 fatalities per years since 1982, and with an average of 41% alcohol-related.
According to RITA, (Research and Innovative Technology Administration) of the DOT, it is estimated that 91% of Americans will be traveling by car to reach their Thanksgiving Day destination. The number of Americans who will be on a road trip over the Thursday-to-Monday holiday weekend that is more than 50 miles in length will increase by 54%
With the knowledge of how many Americans will be traveling on Thanksgiving; how much alcohol is likely to be consumed and the instances of over-indulgence which will put fellow travelers at risk, it becomes all the more important to keep in mind some common-sense prevention measures.
Alcohol Prevention Tips
The time-honored and truly workable safety measure is that of “Don’t drink and drive.” That wise advice fully followed would save lives, prevent the heartbreak of fatalities caused by a drunk driver, the life-ruining experience of killing others in a car accident because of over-indulgence in alcohol, and the life-ruining possibility of going to prison for accidentally taking the lives of other people due to causing an alcohol-involved vehicle fatality.
For those who choose to make alcohol consumption a part of their Thanksgiving Day get-togethers with family and friends, there are alcohol prevention measures which can be followed, thus minimizing the risk of over-indulgence and preventing dire consequences when it does occur.
The following are some simple and workable prevention tips designed to keep you and your loved ones safe; and doing your part in keeping others and their loved ones safe, as well.
- Plan ahead if you are going to drink at Thanksgiving holiday get-togethers by having a designated and sober driver.
- Manage your alcohol consumption, and limit yourself from over-indulging.
- When hosting a Thanksgiving get-together for family and friends, provide a wide choice of non-alcoholic beverages. In addition to sparkling waters, fruit juices and refreshing teas, there are non-alcoholic beers and wines.
- As the host of a Thanksgiving get-together, you are responsible to ensure your guests, whether family or friends, do not leave under the influence of alcohol and get behind the wheel of a vehicle. Ensure the person has a designated sober driver to get them home safely, and if not, provide them a place to spend the night and sleep it off.
With a little foresight, good judgment and a bit planning, the Thanksgiving Day holiday can remain happy and safe for everyone on the road.
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