Zutobi 2023 Holiday Report: The Deadliest Holidays to be Driving

Holidays are meant to be moments of joy and celebration, but amidst the festivities, there are hidden dangers that we often overlook. Every year, as countless Americans hit the road to enjoy their well-deserved breaks, they unwittingly encounter risks that can turn these happy occasions into tragic events. Between 2017 and 2021, an alarming 11,001 lives were lost in car crashes during these seemingly blissful times. The road, it seems, holds more than meets the eye.

At Zutobi, we believe in the power of safe driving education and staying informed. In this report, we present the ranking of America’s most dangerous holidays on the road, based on meticulous analysis of statistics on DUI, speeding, distracted driving, and inexperience. We ranked each holiday from best to worst based on statistics from the past five years.

First Place: Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving, a time of gratitude and gathering with loved ones, demands our utmost attention to safety on the road. Ranking first among the top five most dangerous holidays, Thanksgiving presents unique challenges that require heightened caution.

Over the past five years, 2,448 lives were lost during the Thanksgiving holiday. In 2021, there were 531 fatalities, showing a slight decrease compared to the previous year’s 515. Though this decline may seem small, every life saved is significant. It reminds us of the importance of practicing responsible driving habits during this beloved holiday.

Specific incidents during Thanksgiving in 2021 revealed that 190 lives were lost due to driving under the influence (36%), while 161 lives were claimed by speeding (30%). Additionally, 79 fatalities involved young drivers.

To ensure safe travels during Thanksgiving, consider the following enhanced tips:

1. Prepare your vehicle before hitting the road by checking tire pressure, brakes, and fluid levels.
2. Minimize distractions by keeping your focus solely on the road and avoiding activities such as texting or eating while driving.
3. Get adequate rest before embarking on long drives to combat driver fatigue and ensure alertness behind the wheel.

Second Place: Labor Day

Labor Day, a time of reflection and bidding farewell to the summer season, carries its own set of risks on the road. As the second-ranking holiday among the top five most dangerous, Labor Day demands heightened attention and precaution.

Over the past five years, 2,348 lives were lost during Labor Day. In 2021, there was a slight decrease to 531 fatalities compared to the previous year’s 530. Although this reduction may seem marginal, it underscores the significance of prioritizing vigilance and safe driving practices during this transitional holiday.

Specific incidents during Labor Day in 2021 revealed that 216 lives were lost due to driving under the influence (40%), while 180 lives were claimed by speeding (34%). Additionally, 82 fatalities involved young drivers. These numbers emphasize the critical need for heightened awareness and responsible behavior behind the wheel during this holiday period.

To ensure safe journeys during Labor Day, consider the following enhanced tips:

1. Be mindful of changing weather conditions as summer transitions into fall. Check local forecasts and road conditions, and adjust your driving accordingly.
2. Share the road responsibly by showing courtesy to other drivers, motorcyclists, and bicyclists. Maintain a safe distance and use turn signals when changing lanes.
3. Observe and respect posted speed limits, especially in construction zones and areas with heavy traffic. Remember, arriving safely is more important than reaching your destination quickly.

Third Place: Fourth of July

The Fourth of July, a day of patriotic fervor and exuberant celebrations, is also marked by unique risks on the road. Ranking third among the top five most dangerous holidays, there are distinct factors that contribute to the risks associated with Fourth of July travel.

Over the past five years, 2,344 lives were lost during the Fourth of July. In 2021, the number of fatalities rose to 538, demonstrating an increase compared to the previous year’s 493, marking a rise of 9.1%. These numbers emphasize the importance of remaining vigilant and practicing responsible driving behaviors during this festive period.

Specific incidents during Fourth of July in 2021 revealed that 212 lives were lost due to driving under the influence (39%), while 171 lives were claimed by speeding (32%). Additionally, 69 fatalities involved young drivers. While these figures are concerning, we can take measures to enhance safety on the roads during this holiday.

To ensure responsible and safe travels during Fourth of July, consider the following tips:

1. Be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution when driving in areas with high pedestrian traffic due to parades, gatherings, and fireworks displays.
2. Take breaks during long journeys to combat fatigue and maintain focus behind the wheel, as drowsy driving poses significant risks.
3. Celebrate responsibly by refraining from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Designate a sober driver or use rideshare services instead.

Fourth Place: Memorial Day

Memorial Day marks the arrival of summer, igniting a spirit of adventure and a longing for outdoor excursions. However, amidst the anticipation, it’s crucial to acknowledge the potential dangers that accompany this holiday. Memorial Day ranks fourth among the top five most dangerous holidays.

Over the past five years, 2,192 lives were lost during Memorial Day. In 2021, the number of fatalities rose to 480, showing an increase compared to the previous year’s 406, signifying a 18.2% rise. These statistics remind us of the need for heightened caution and responsible behavior on the roads during this time.

Memorial Day incidents in 2021 revealed 181 lives lost due to driving under the influence (38%) and 145 lives claimed by speeding (30%). Additionally, 69 fatalities involved young drivers. While these numbers are concerning, it’s essential to remember that by adopting safe driving practices, we can minimize the risks associated with Memorial Day travel.

Several factors contribute to the increased risk on Memorial Day. The long weekend often leads to a surge in traffic volume as people embark on trips, resulting in congestion and potentially reckless driving behaviors. Moreover, the festive atmosphere and outdoor celebrations may encourage alcohol consumption, making DUI incidents more prevalent.

To ensure safe journeys during Memorial Day, consider the following tips:

1. Prioritize vehicle maintenance, including checking tire pressure, brakes, and fluid levels before hitting the road.
2. Remain attentive and avoid distractions while driving, such as texting or engaging in other activities that take your focus away from the road.
3. Plan your route in advance, taking into account potential traffic congestion and road closures.
4. Designate a sober driver or make use of alternative transportation if you plan to consume alcohol.

Fifth Place: Christmas

During the enchanting Christmas season, families gather to share in the warmth and joy of the festivities. While Christmas presents its own unique challenges on the road, it is considered the “safest” among the top five most dangerous holidays. Over the past five years, 1,669 lives were lost in fatal crashes during the Christmas holidays.

In 2021, there were 395 fatalities, showing an increase from the previous year’s 336, marking a significant rise of 17.6%. Among the specific incidents in 2021, 142 lives were lost due to driving under the influence (36%), 115 lives were claimed by speeding (29%), and 66 fatalities involved young drivers. While these numbers highlight areas of concern, Christmas still maintains a relatively lower risk compared to other holidays.

To ensure safe travels during Christmas, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

1. Designate a sober driver or make use of alternative transportation if you plan to consume alcohol.
2. Minimize distractions by avoiding phone use and other activities that divert your attention from the road.
3. Stay alert and watch for young and inexperienced drivers who may be more prone to making errors on the road.

How can this be improved?

Education plays a vital role in promoting safe driving habits and reducing the risks associated with these holidays. Proper driving education programs should be implemented, ensuring that new drivers receive comprehensive training on defensive driving techniques, responsible alcohol consumption, and the dangers of distracted driving. Additionally, ongoing safe driving campaigns can help raise awareness among the general public, emphasizing the importance of responsible behavior on the road.

As Leo Waldenback, co-founder of Zutobi, aptly states, “Proper driving education is the foundation of creating a safer driving environment for everyone. By equipping drivers with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the roads responsibly, we can work towards reducing the alarming statistics and making our holidays safer for all.”

In conclusion, while holidays bring excitement and joy, they also present inherent risks on the road. By prioritizing safe driving practices, spreading awareness through education, and fostering a culture of responsible behavior, we can strive towards making our holiday journeys safer and ensuring that families can cherish these special times without the specter of tragedy looming overhead.

Previous reports

2022 Holiday driving report

Methodology

Data in this report has been gathered from different governmental websites, including the Fatality and Injury Reporting System Tool (FIRST) developed by NHTSA, and NSC injury data. This report features the latest data released in 2022.