11/ 21/ 2007
From the Network of Employers for Traffic Safety
The Thanksgiving holiday is the busiest time of the year for family travel. AAA expects 31.2 million Americans to drive more than 50 miles for their Thanksgiving feast. That's up 1.3 percent from last year.
As you and your family drive across town or across the country to share the Thanksgiving holiday with friends and loved ones—and back again—millions of other Americans join you on the road. Some of them have been up all night packing or have had inadequate rest from working long hours or preparing for the holiday.
Long trips can be stressful and distracting, especially if you're traveling with young children. The key to surviving holiday drive time is planning ahead. And, with the weather forecast, make sure your car is winter road ready. Check your car's battery and your tires' tread and inflation, and pack a winter survival kit that includes a small shovel, blanket and a first-aid kit.
Safe driving is up to you. Recognize the risks—and do all you can to ensure your safety, and the safety of your passengers and others on the road.
Here are our 10 steps for responsible driving:
1. Plan your route
2. Maintain your vehicle
3. Focus your attention
4. Minimize your distractions
5. Know your surroundings
6. Share your space
7. Watch your speed
8. Keep your distance
9. Signal your intentions
10. Always wear your seat belt
Nationally, 732 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes during the Thanksgiving travel time in 2005 and half were not wearing seat belts. Seat belts clearly save lives. But unfortunately, too many Americans still put themselves at great risk by not always buckling up. This Thanksgiving, please remember to tighten your seat belt before and after your big holiday dinner.
Thanksgiving is also a good time to remember that children must always be properly restrained in moving vehicles. Although 98 percent of all American infants are now restrained, older children also need to be in the appropriate and properly installed restraint for their size and age. Unfortunately, seven out of 10 child safety restraints are improperly used.
Thanksgiving is a great time to remind all family members around the table to always drive responsibly, every trip, every time.
