Preliminary estimates from the National Safety Council show motor vehicle deaths have increased 9 percent through the first six months of 2016 from the first half of 2015. An estimated 19,100 people have been killed on U.S. roads since January, and 2.2 million people were seriously injured.
In addition, NSC is projecting that 438 people will be killed in motor vehicle-related incidents over the upcoming Labor Day weekend.
“Our complacency is killing us,” Deborah A.P. Hersman, president and CEO of NSC, said in a press release. “Americans should demand change to prioritize safety actions and protect ourselves from one of the leading causes of preventable death.”
NSC offers the following tips for safe driving:
- Make sure every passenger buckles up on every trip.
- Never use a cell phone or hands-free device when driving.
- Designate an alcohol- and drug-free driver, or arrange alternate transportation.
- Get plenty of sleep and take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.
