The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is currently trying to raise awareness about the importance of buckling up this holiday season. Their “Buckling Up Could Save Your Giblets” campaign is also getting the word out about Click it or Ticket initiatives across the country. Since buckling up is the single most effective way to stay safe in the event of a wreck, the NHTSA is hoping to put an end to preventable deaths and injuries this year.
Car Accidents on Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is typically a holiday where families rejoice in togetherness and give thanks. Sadly, preventable crashes that occur due to impaired, distracted and careless drivers keep hundreds of family members from making it home to celebrate each year. There were 301 fatalities due to car crashes over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend in 2012. The NHTSA reports that 60 percent of those victims were not buckled up at the time of the crash.
U.S. Seat Belt Safety Facts
- In 2012, 21,667 people were killed in car crashes across the U.S.
- Over half (52 percent) of those people were not wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.
- The NHTSA estimates that seat belts saved 12,174 lives in 2012.
- The NHTSA also estimates, that had everyone been buckled up last year, an additional 3,031 lives could have been saved.
Drunk Driving Crashes During the Holidays
Drunk driving crashes are also a serious concern over holiday weekends. The spike in celebrations and holiday parties often lead to an increase in drunk driving related crashes. Partygoers are encouraged to make plans ahead of time to ensure a safe ride home. Party hosts and hostesses are also reminded to help their guests find safe rides home if they’ve been drinking. Drunk driving crashes are 100 percent preventable.
After a Car Accident
After any kind of car accident, your first priority needs to be your health. Get your immediate medical needs taken care of as soon as possible. Whether you’ve been injured by a drunk driver or a distracted driver, speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible after a crash. A lawyer can get the ball rolling on your case and be your advocate, so you can get back to celebrating the holidays with your loved ones. The team at the Altman Legal Group wishes everybody a safe and happy Thanksgiving.