An estimated 409 people may be killed and 47,000 seriously injured in motor vehicle accidents during Memorial Day weekend this year, according to the National Safety Council.
The number of fatalities is expected to be 12 percent higher than the average number of deaths, 364, that occurred in the past six years. The three-day holiday period begins at 6 p.m. ET Friday, May 26 and ends at 11:59 p.m. ET Monday, May 29.
"Memorial Day should mark the start of summer – not the start of another deadly driving season," said Deborah A.P. Hersman, president, CEO of NSC in a statement. "Paying attention, slowing down and being courteous can ensure you and your fellow travelers make it to picnics, beaches and BBQs rather than emergency rooms."
The holiday injury and fatality estimates are part of a nationwide upward trend. Traffic deaths increased 6 percent in 2016 and 14 percent in 2014 – the steepest two-year jump since 1964, according to the NSC.
The organization released seven tips which include basic reminders as well as using vehicle features to ensure a safe holiday weekend. Click through the slideshow to view them.
