Driving Deaths Higher on Election Days Than on Other Major Days, Study Says

Driving deaths have surged on U.S. presidential election days when compared to other yearly events, a troubling trend supported by recent research.

At a Glance

A study by Young Drivers of Canada highlights a significantly higher number of driving fatalities on election days compared to other events.
Risks on Election Day are 38% higher than on Super Bowl Sunday and 80% higher than on New Year’s Day.
Contributors to these hazards include unfamiliar routes, traffic volume, and a decrease in police presence on roads.
The 2016 election marked a notable 146% increase in driving deaths compared to New Year’s Day.

Rising Risks on Election Days

A recent study by Young Drivers of Canada reveals a concerning increase in driving fatalities on U.S. presidential election days. These findings demonstrate a 38% increased risk of fatalities on Election Day compared to Super Bowl Sunday and an 80% higher risk than on New Year’s Day. The pursuit to cast ballots brings an unexpected peril to citizens, particularly on the roads across America.

The trend of higher fatalities was most pronounced during the 2016 general election. Records show 58% more deaths than on Super Bowl Sunday and a staggering 146% over New Year’s Day. Data indicates 138 deadly crashes in 2012, surging to 150 in 2016 and 173 in 2020.

Analyzing the Causes

Factors contributing to the spike in road danger on Election Day may include driving anxiety, distractions, and unfamiliar routes due to increased traffic, per the study. Reduced police presence on roads, with many officers assigned to voting centers, may also contribute to higher fatalities. Safety becomes a real concern as these underprepared traveling conditions increase the likelihood of accidents.

“Electioneers and public officials are urged to include safety warnings alongside their messages encouraging voter participation. Voters should be reminded to plan their trips carefully, allow extra time to reach polling stations, and avoid distractions while driving,” Young Drivers’ chief operating officer Maria Bagdonas said.

This isn’t the first time research has been done on election day driving hazards. One analysis unveiled in 2008 suggested an increased risk of car crashes on such days, with an additional 24 deaths compared to other Tuesdays in October and November. Also highlighted was an 18% higher risk of death with 800 suffering disabling injuries.

Emphasis on Safety

“With the next U.S. Presidential Election fast approaching, safety should be prioritized, ensuring that voters can cast their ballots without becoming part of a tragic statistic,” Bagdonas said of the importance of road safety in a statement.

She also noted in an interview that this coming Election Day could be more risky due to a likely increase in voter turnout.