Labor Day Travelers Take Caution When Taking to the Roads

    NASHVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE FEATURES)--Aug. 28, 2001--As thousands of Tennesseans take to the road this Labor Day weekend, motorists should take caution when traveling during what has become the second most dangerous driving weekend of the year.
    The results of a survey by Progressive Auto Insurance suggest Labor Day motorists are more likely to drive when fatigued and more likely to drive after consuming alcohol. Nearly 60 percent of motorists surveyed said they would drive while too tired in order to reach their destination in one night. Almost 25 percent of respondents reported driving a short distance to get home after consuming too much alcohol.
    Fatalities from traffic accidents are nearly 20 percent higher in Tennessee than the national average, according to Progressive Auto Insurance. Tennesseans are also far less likely to wear seatbelts than other Americans-particularly Tennesseans who drive sport-utility vehicles.
    "Labor Day weekend should be a time of celebration and fun for many families, but unfortunately the holiday often generates a high level of car accidents as millions of people pack our roadways," said Denise Weston, Progressive Auto Insurance product manager. "Motorists can avoid injuries and fatalities while traveling this weekend by keeping a few simple things in mind."
    As drivers pack Tennessee highways for a last summer getaway, motorists should follow these tips while traveling to avoid hazardous driving this Labor Day weekend:

--	Wear seatbelts. The National Safety Council estimates 129 lives can be saved nationwide this weekend if drivers and passengers wore their seatbelts, according to the National Safety Council. Experts estimate that as many as 500 people will lose their lives this weekend in car accidents.
--	Allow extra time to reach a destination. Speeding causes nearly 30 percent of all automobile fatalities. According to Progressive Auto Insurance, more than 13,000 lives are lost each year due to speed-related accidents.
--	Stop for a walk or meal at dusk. If you're on a long drive, avoid city travel during rush hours-the most dangerous driving time of the day.
--	Take frequent breaks. Get out of the car and stretch tired muscles to increase oxygen flow to the brain and boost wakefulness.
--	Stop to read maps or use cell phones. Drivers should make every effort to keep both eyes on the road and both hands on the steering wheel at all times.
--	Avoid sugary snacks and caffeine. These types of food and drinks give drivers quick energy but leave them feeling tired later.