Itasca, IL – Independence Day weekend is a dangerous time on America’s roadways, which is why the National Safety Council reminds you to buckle up and drive sober. From 6 p.m. this Thursday, July 2, through the end of Sunday, July 5, the NSC estimates there will be 381 traffic fatalities and an additional 20,000 nonfatal disabling injuries.

The NSC also estimates that seat belts will save 336 lives this holiday weekend and an additional 88 lives could be saved if all passengers wore seat belts. Buckling up is the most effective protection against serious crash injuries; seat belts are 45 percent effective in preventing fatalities and are an impaired driver’s best defense against injury.

To address impaired driving, NHTSA launched its “Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest” campaign this week. Law enforcement will be out in full force in states nationwide to enact a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol-impaired driving. On Independence Day and New Years Day, 42 percent of all traffic fatalities are due to alcohol, the highest among all other holidays.

For tips on driving safely, visit NSC’s online fact sheet library at nsc.org/resources/Factsheets.

The National Safety Council (www.nsc.org) saves lives by preventing injuries and deaths at work, in homes and communities, and on the roads, through leadership, research, education and advocacy.