Labor Day marks the end of the 100 Deadliest Days — a period notorious for high teen auto fatalities in the US.

Pew Research reports that by the time Labor Day arrives, 85% of students are already back in school, making the holiday their first extended break of the new school year.

For others, it’s the final chance for last-minute shopping and preparations before classes start. Families and friends gather for barbecues and celebrations, savoring the last days of summer.

However, with the end of summer festivities comes an increased risk on the roads.

In 2023, distracted driving skyrocketed 13.5% on Labor Day compared to the surrounding Mondays. This 13.5% increase led drivers to spend 2 minutes and 17 seconds per hour using their phones on the holiday. CMT defines screen interaction as when a driver taps on their phone’s screen while the vehicle is traveling over 9 mph. 

Compared to the Mondays before and after, Labor Day sees elevated levels of distracted driving throughout the day. It starts early in the morning with a steady increase in distracted driving from 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. With early risers trying to get to their destination for the day and the roads being emptier that early, some drivers may be more tempted to use their phones, leading to higher levels of distraction.

The roads only get riskier as the day goes on. The biggest increase in the afternoon is at 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., 15% and 17% higher than other Mondays, respectively. This time period is right around when many people fire up the grill and have friends and family over for a barbecue. 

This time is also when many come back from beach outings and pool parties. When social activities increase, like with Labor Day barbecues, drivers more frequently communicate with others, resulting in higher distraction rates during many holidays.

Labor Day is the eighth most distracted holiday of the year, with a surge in dangerous driving behaviors. The highest level of distraction occurred in 2020, with drivers spending 2 minutes and 24 seconds interacting with their phones while driving.

The increase in screen interaction has severe and fatal consequences. CMT’s research shows that for every 10% increase in distracted driving, the fatality rate increases by 1.5%. Since 2020, increases in Labor Day distraction have led to 820 additional crashes, 460 injuries, 3 fatalities, and an economic impact of $32.6 million. 

Distracted driving isn’t the only risky behavior that rises on Labor Day. In 2023, speeding increased by 58.6% on Labor Day compared to other Mondays, reaching 3 minutes and 17 seconds. The combination of distracted driving and increased speeds creates a dangerous environment for drivers. The excitement of holiday celebrations and the rush to arrive at destinations often cause drivers to speed, reducing their reaction time and increasing the risk and severity of crashes.

Let’s have a safe end to summer

As Labor Day marks the end of the 100 Deadliest Days, let’s commit to making our roads safer all throughout the year. Avoid distractions, stay focused, and prioritize safe driving practices to make sure everyone enjoys a safe and fun holiday.