LABOR DAY SAFETY TIPS: HOW TO SURVIVE ONE OF THE YEAR’S MOST DANGEROUS WEEKENDS

WHY DO TRAFFIC DEATHS SPIKE DURING THE LABOR DAY WEEKEND?

This year, the National Safety Council (NSC) estimates 457 people may die in crashes across the U.S. during the upcoming holiday weekend. While many factors contribute to the alarming number of traffic fatalities, by drunk and/or distracted drivers are major culprits.

Here are the most common reasons for the rise in fatal accidents during Labor Day weekend:

Heavier traffic on Michigan roadways

Local get-togethers and end-of-season road trips mean more cars on the road, which raises the likelihood of accidents

Increased nighttime travel

To maximize the long weekend, many people drive at night between the hours 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., when auto accidents are three times more likely to cause serious injuries or death due to fatigue and decreased visibility

More drunk and/or drug-impaired drivers on the road

Many holiday gatherings include alcohol, which is why more than 43 percent of Labor Day accidents last year involved impaired drivers

Greater likelihood of drivers becoming distracted

Crowded vehicles, loud conversations, eating and drinking and increased use of GPS systems can take drivers’ attention away from the road

More drivers traveling at excessive speeds 

Speeding increased by 58.6% on Labor Day (Cambridge Mobile Telematics) compared to other Mondays, increasing the risk of serious injury or death in the event of a crash

Recommended reading: The Most Common Car Accident Injuries and What to Do After a Crash

“DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER” CAMPAIGN TARGETS DRUNK/DRUGGED MOTORISTS

Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is one of the major causes of fatal car accidents across the country, and Michigan is no exception. According to data from Michigan State Police, 43.2 percent of drivers killed in crashes from 2019 to 2023 were alcohol- and/or drug-impaired.

Last year alone, there were 8,817 alcohol-involved crashes (resulting in 297 fatalities) and 2,250 drug-involved crashes (with 256 fatalities), according to the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute.

To help curb this deadly trend, Michigan law enforcement officers are increasing efforts to apprehend drunk drivers as part of a nationwide “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), the National Highway Safety Administration and the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP). 

In Michigan, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher, although drivers who appear to be impaired can be arrested regardless of BAC level.

The ongoing campaign continues through the Labor Day weekend, which officially begins at 6:00 p.m. Friday, Aug. 30 and ends at 11:59 p.m. Monday, Sept. 2.

Recommended reading: Is It Important to Obtain a Police Report After a Michigan Car Accident?

DOES DISTRACTED DRIVING INCREASE ON LABOR DAY?

Yes. Holiday travel often includes distractions such as multiple passengers, eating and drinking in the vehicle and increased use of GPS apps.

In 2023, distracted driving rose to 13.5% on Labor Day compared to the Mondays before and after the holiday, according to statistics from Cambridge Mobile Telematics. This means drivers spent approximately 2.17 minutes per hour using their phones on the holiday. CMT research showed the fatality rate rose 1.5 percent for every 10 percent increase in distracted driving.  

Recommended reading: The Three Types of Distracted Driving: What Every Michigan Driver Should Know

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO DRIVE DURING LABOR DAY WEEKEND?

If you plan to leave on the Thursday or Friday before Labor Day, it is better to leave before the morning rush hour or after the evening commute to avoid traffic jams.

According to INRIX, a leading transportation data provider, roads are busiest during the following times:

• Thursday from 1:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
• Friday from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
• Saturday from 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.
• Monday from 11 a.m. – to 8: p.m.

Recommended reading: New Michigan Law Prohibits Hand-Held Cell Phones

WHAT TO DO (AND NOT DO) IF YOU ARE INJURED IN A CAR ACCIDENT

• Accidents can happen to the most cautious driver. If you or a loved one is injured in a crash, take the following steps:
• Call an ambulance if you or anyone else needs emergency medical treatment
• Call the police
• Document the scene of the accident, including taking photos of the location and other vehicles involved
• Obtain phone numbers and/or email addresses and insurance information for the other driver(s)
• If necessary, move your car to the shoulder of the road or other nearby location
• Do not leave the scene of the accident before police arrive
• Never admit fault or talk about the accident with the other driver(s)
• Do not discuss your condition or say you feel fine
• If someone asks, say you will have to see your doctor to determine the extent of your injuries
• Do not talk to an insurance adjuster or sign any papers
• Contact a Michigan car accident lawyer as soon as possible

Recommended reading: Do You Need A Lawyer For A Car Accident That Was Not Your Fault?

PUT OUR EXPERIENCED MICHIGAN CAR ACCIDENT LAWYERS TO WORK FOR YOU TODAY

While we wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend, accidents can happen to the most careful drivers. If you or a loved one is injured in a Michigan car accident, we can help. Our knowledgeable legal team knows what it takes to win your case, and we have the expertise and resources to win the compensation you deserve.

Car accident law is complicated, but finding the right Michigan car accident lawyer is simple.

Get your case started today by clicking on the link below or calling 1-800-CALL-SAM for a free, no-obligation consultation with a member of our legal team.