Millions Expected to Travel Over Labor Day Weekend, Accidents Likely

Gas prices might be up, but that’s not stopping millions of Americans from hitting the road over the Labor Day holiday weekend. According to Long Island Newsday, about 33 million people will be traveling over the long weekend, meaning that they’re planning on going 50 miles or more away from their home. That’s up nearly 3 percent from last year’s records. This is actually the highest number of travelers since Labor Day 2007.

Currently, the average cost of a gallon of gas is about $3.72. That’s up more than 40 cents from the cost in July, but still down about 22 cents from the peak we reached in April. Officials say that gas could reach $3.75 by Labor Day weekend. That’s not stopping travelers though. Many are already packed and ready to go.

Our Queens car accident attorneys understand that officials are estimating about 85 percent of the 33 million Labor Day travelers will be driving to and from their destination. With the spike in travelers, drivers especially, we’re warning you about the spike in the number of accidents that were going to see through the long holiday weekend.

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), there will be more than 400 people who died in car accidents over Labor Day. Officials estimate another 41,000 will be injured.

The Labor Day weekend is known, for statistical reasons, as the time from 6:00 p.m. on Friday the 31st through 11:59 p.m. on Monday the 3rd.

“Travel is still within America’s discretionary spending budget,” said Bill Sutherland with AAA Travel Services.

While you might be focusing on that day off of work that we all get with this holiday weekend, we’re asking drivers to keep safety one of the top concerns. Officials with the NSC are here to offer some safe driving tips.

Labor Day Safe Driving Tips:

-Never drink and drive. About 40 percent of fatal accidents over the Labor Day weekend are expected to involve a drunk driver. Designate a sober driver if drinking is part of your plans.

-Always wear your seat belt. Make sure that everyone in your car is buckled up, too!

-Educate yourself about road laws in states that you may be traveling to.

-Leave for your destination with plenty of time to spare to avoid rushing and aggressive driving.

-Practice your most defensive driving habits. Be ready for hazards at all times!

-Keep distractions out of the driver’s seat.

-Stay calm behind the wheel. Expect delays and congested roadways. Allow time for these obstacles. Stay cool.

-Know where you’re going before you leave to avoid messing with road maps and GPS devices while driving.

-Adjust your driving during inclement weather are shoddy road and traffic conditions.