Holidays Most Likely to Land You in the ER

Ah, the holidays! A time for family, friends, feasts, and increased danger? That’s right, there is a spike in car and home accidents on some holidays.

But before you cancel your travel plans and stockpile bubble wrap, let’s dive into the data and see which holidays require extra caution.

Road Warriors Beware

Buckle up because many of the most dangerous holidays involve cars. Let’s discuss the holidays during which you’re most likely to encounter road rage and bumper car enthusiasts.

Thanksgiving and Independence Day

These two holidays make up most traffic fatalities. According to the National Safety Council, the blame falls on a perfect storm of factors:
- Long journeys to see loved ones
- Late-night revelry on the Fourth of July
- Drowsy driving fueled by those delicious holiday meals

Remember, a tired driver is just as dangerous as a drunk driver, according to studies by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Take breaks and share driving responsibilities! The National Safety Council estimates more than 500 people tragically lose their lives in traffic accidents during Thanksgiving weekend alone.

Memorial Day and Labor Day

According to the Federal Highway Administration, the allure of long weekends and barbeques can increase traffic.

Unfortunately, more cars on the road often means more accidents. Be mindful of those extra vehicles and resist the urge to speed home after a cookout.

New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve might be synonymous with champagne toasts and confetti showers, but it also coincides with a rise in drunk driving incidents.

From 2017 to 2021 The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recorded more than 4,500 deaths in drunk driving traffic crashes during the month of December. The National Safety Council warns that many celebrants hit the road well past midnight, turning joyous celebrations into tragedies.

The solution is simple: If you’re imbibing, plan a safe ride home. Designate a driver, call a rideshare, or crash at a friend’s place.

Holiday Hazards at Home

While many dangers lurk on the road, avoiding potential pitfalls at home is also essential. Here are a few ways to keep the holiday cheer from resulting in a trip to the emergency room.

Decorative Disasters

Decorating mishaps and holiday fires are more common than you might think. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in 2016-2020 U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 160 home and structure fires per year caused by the ignition of Christmas trees. They also report that 41% of Christmas tree fires occur in December, with 33% occurring in January. Be careful with those twinkling lights and avoid overloading electrical outlets.

Turkey Troubles

Turkey coma aside, Thanksgiving can also lead to kitchen mishaps. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that around one in six Americans will get sick from foodborne illness yearly.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers guidance on ensuring your Thanksgiving meal is a safe one. “Unsafe handling and undercooking your turkey can cause foodborne illness, to ensure your Thanksgiving meal is wholesome and memorable without the illness, follow the four steps to food safety: clean, separate, cook and chill, and avoid risky food handling habits that go against USDA guidelines.”

While some holidays have a slightly higher risk factor, a little awareness and planning can go a long way. Remember, celebrating responsibly is the best way to make memories – not medical bills – during your next holiday weekend!

References: Keep Risky Habits Out of the Kitchen this Thanksgiving|Drive Sober This December - and Every Month|
Estimates of Foodborne Illness in the United States | Christmas tree fires | Drunk Driving | NSC Estimates 518 People May Die in Preventable Car Crashes Over Thanksgiving Holiday | Memorial Day Holiday Period Could be Deadly for Hundreds of Road Users| Drowsy Driving is as Dangerous as Drunk Driving| HOLIDAY TRAFFIC FATALITY ESTIMATE | TRAFFIC VOLUME TRENDS| NSC Urges Safe Driving This Independence Day Weekend