NSC urges roadway users to put safety first during the busy holiday travel period

WASHINGTON, Aug. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The National Safety Council urges all roadway users to make safe choices this Labor Day by driving sober, buckling up and observing speed limits. NSC analysis estimates 434 people may die in motor vehicle crashes during the 2026 Labor Day holiday period, from 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4, to 11:59 p.m. Monday, Sept. 7 – a 2% increase from last year’s holiday estimate.

All traffic crashes are preventable, and more lives can be saved if drivers and vehicle occupants take the steps necessary to protect themselves and others. NSC estimates an additional 106 lives could be saved this holiday period if all vehicle occupants wear a seat belt. In 2024, an estimated 34% of fatal traffic crashes involved an alcohol-impaired driver during Labor Day weekend, reinforcing the importance of planning ahead for a sober driver.

“As we celebrate our nation’s workers this Labor Day weekend, we all have a responsibility to keep each other safe on the road,” said Lorraine Martin, NSC CEO. “We can protect ourselves and one another by making responsible driving decisions and keeping safety top of mind.”

These simple steps can help keep all roadway users safe:

• Always check your vehicle to ensure children, pets and other passengers are not left behind in hot cars
• Avoid distractions while driving, including cell phones and infotainment systems
• Get plenty of sleep and avoid driving while fatigued
• Plan ahead and designate a sober driver, or make alternate arrangements
• Check your vehicle for open safety recalls at ChecktoProtect.org
• Follow posted speed limits and buckle up on every trip

NSC partners with communities nationwide through the Road to Zero Coalition to eliminate roadway fatalities and advance comprehensive roadway safety solutions. This holiday, every safe decision can help us move closer to that goal. Learn how the Council is working toward zero traffic deaths at nsc.org/roadtozero.

View the full analysis and more data at injuryfacts.nsc.org/labor-day.

About the National Safety Council  

The National Safety Council is America’s leading nonprofit safety advocate – and has been for over 110 years. As a mission-based organization, we work to eliminate the leading causes of preventable death and injury, focusing our efforts on the workplace and roadways. We create a culture of safety to not only keep people safer at work, but also beyond the workplace so they can live their fullest lives. 

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©2026 National Safety Council 

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SOURCE National Safety Council