Millions of Americans are gearing up to celebrate Labor Day. While the holiday weekend brings barbecues, parades, and end-of-summer fun, it also poses significant risks on the road.

Many commercial fleet drivers will remain hard at work even during the holiday. It's essential to stress the importance of making smart and safe choices during holidays like Labor Day.

Road and Travel Safety

The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates 424 people may die on U.S. roads this Labor Day holiday period, which is down 7% from 2024. 

Car travelers should plan accordingly, as roads can become congested quickly. To avoid traffic caused by the combination of travelers and commuters, AAA suggests planning your driving time for early Friday morning, unless you're hitting the road on Saturday, when the best time to travel by car is in the afternoon.

Travelers and commuters rolling out on Sunday and Labor Day should leave as early as possible to avoid heavy traffic. Allow yourself more time to arrive at your destination. More road users mean longer commute times.

How to Stay Prepared

AAA responded to more than 383,000 calls from stranded motorists in 2024.

“Labor Day weekend marks one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and our roadside assistance crews are ready to respond swiftly to those in need,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Still, a few proactive measures before heading out can make all the difference. A quick vehicle check can help avoid unexpected breakdowns, saving time, money, and stress—and most importantly, keeping everyone safe on the road.”

Here are some recommendations to help you stay prepared and prevent incidents during the holiday. 

Vehicle Maintenance

• Tires: Inspect tread depth and proper inflation, including the spare tire. 

• Battery: Test for signs of wear, such as slow engine starts or dim lights, and replace if needed. 

• Brakes: Listen for grinding noises or vibrations, which may signal a need for service. 

• Wiper Blades: Replace if they streak or fail to clear the windshield effectively. 

• Fluids: Check and top off oil, coolant, and brake fluids as recommended in the owner’s manual. 

NSC Safety Precautions: 

• Prepare before you go: Before hitting the road, ensure your car is safe for driving. Vehicle owners should check the oil, inflate the tires, and inspect for any open recalls.

• Buckle up: Lack of seat belt use is a top cause of crash fatalities.

• Slow down: Speeding is a factor in more than a quarter of all traffic fatalities.

• Drive distraction-free: Put your phones away while driving and remain alert.

As you plan your Labor Day celebrations or head to work, remember that prioritizing safety on the road is essential for ensuring a fun and accident-free holiday weekend.

Editor’s note: This article was originally published in August 2024 and has been updated for continued relevance.