When thinking of Thanksgiving, many things come to mind; such as food, family, blessings, maybe even a pleasant memory. But does “dangerous” come to mind? Probably not.

Did you know that the National Safety Council estimates that about 515 people may die on U.S. roads this Thanksgiving holiday? That is the most deaths estimated for the Thanksgiving holiday period since 2007. According to the American Automobile Association, it is estimated that more than 53.4 million people will travel this year for Thanksgiving, with the majority of those choosing to travel by car. Car travel has the highest fatality rate in the U.S. for unintentional injury deaths. Alcohol is also a factor adding to the holiday’s high fatality rate. During the Thanksgiving Day weekend (Wednesday evening through Sunday afternoon), about 29% of fatalities that occur are caused by the alcohol-impaired driver.

While this holiday may include car travel and possibly alcohol, making simple choices, such as wearing your seatbelt and having a designated driver can keep you much safer. So, while you’re gobbling up your meal this Thanksgiving, decide to drink responsibly, and as always make sure to wear your seatbelt. It could possibly save your life.