SARASOTA – The most joyous time of the year can also be the most dangerous times for drivers. A new case study research predicts 288 to 395 traffic deaths this Christmas weekend.
Millions of Americans across the country are expected to travel for the holidays – despite warnings by the CDC to stay at home and avoid large family gatherings.
Dr. Anthony Fauci say the COVID-19 pandemic makes it risky for large groups to gather indoors and celebrate the season.
“People doing the normal wonderful things of congregating together for meals with friends and family,” said Dr. Fauci. “As innocent as those things seem, in fact those are the things in many respects continue to drive this.”
A study by the National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that 340 people may die on U.S. roads this Christmas Day holiday period.
“The key to a safe holiday is simply planning ahead,” State Trooper Kenn Watson. “Let’s make sure that everyone understands the Florida Highway Patrol, the sheriff’s office, the local police department will all be out in force making sure that you get to your destination safely.
Trooper Watson with the Florida Highway Patrol State says, driver should plan ahead if they intend to go out to gatherings.
A study by the NSC found drivers with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher are involved in one-third of all traffic fatalities in the U.S. That’s about 10,000 lives lost every year.
“We also need you to understand there are no warnings when it comes to impaired driving,” said Trooper Watson.
Triple AAA projects about 85 million people in the U.S. may travel through January 3rd that’s down roughly 30% from last year.
Trooper Watson says he understand the temptation of spending end-of-the-year holidays with family and friends is too strong for some people. As drivers prepare to hit the road he reminds us to stay alert and mindful of other drivers.
“Do the right thing, do the safe thing. Buckle up, devices down, good spatial orientation, both hands on the wheel. Get to your destination safely,” said Trooper Watson.
