Jonesboro, AR – Jonesboro Right Now – As residents pack up for one last summer getaway this weekend, new data serves as a reminder to stay alert behind the wheel.

According to a recently released holiday driving report by driver’s education platform Zutobi, Labor Day is the second most dangerous holiday to be driving in the United States, trailing only the Fourth of July.

The report shows that over the past five years, 2,567 lives have been lost on U.S. roads during the Labor Day weekend. In 2024 alone, the holiday weekend saw 505 traffic fatalities.

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The main reasons behind these crashes remain consistent year over year. Of the 505 fatalities recorded during the 2024 Labor Day weekend:

  • 170 deaths (34%) were tied to driving under the influence
  • 150 deaths (30%) were linked to speeding
  • 84 deaths involved drivers between the ages of 15 and 20

Labor Day falls just behind Independence Day for road fatalities, and ahead of Thanksgiving, Memorial Day, and Christmas. Together, Zutobi said those five holidays claimed 11,579 lives between 2020 and 2024.

“Labor Day marks the last big trip of the summer, which means more families packing the car and more drivers pushing to make it to one final gathering before the season ends,” said Lucas Waldenback, co-founder of Zutobi. “Don’t rush to get there, keep a safe following distance, and stick to the simple rule of never driving after drinking.”

Whether you are heading across the state or just across town, keep these safety practices in mind:

  • Plan for a sober ride: If your weekend plans involve alcohol, line up a designated driver or use a rideshare service before heading out.
  • Watch the weather: As summer transitions to fall, weather conditions can change quickly. Check local forecasts and adjust your driving to match road conditions.
  • Share the road: Give motorcyclists, cyclists, and other drivers extra room. Always signal before changing lanes.
  • Respect the speed limit: Keep your speed in check, especially in work zones and areas with heavy holiday traffic.
  • Eliminate distractions: Put the phone away and keep your full attention focused on the road.

Read the full report here.

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