Study Shows Traffic Fatality Numbers Spike on Election Day

By Aaron Poehler

Published on September 30, 2008

A study which appears in today's issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that more people die in traffic accidents on days when U.S. presidential elections are held.

The study, co-authored by Dr. Donald Redelmeier of the University of Toronto and Robert Tibshirani of Stanford University, examined statistics for U.S. traffic-related deaths ranging from the 1976 election of Jimmy Carter to the 2004 re-election of George W. Bush -- a total of eight election Tuesdays. The researchers' analysis showed that Americans were approximately 18 percent more likely to suffer a fatal traffic accident during polling hours on presidential election days than on other Tuesdays -- a greater increase than that of either New Year's Eve or Super Bowl Sunday, traditionally thought of as high-risk traffic days.

The scientists theorized that the increased incidence of traffic fatalities could be attributed to drivers who are distracted by consideration of the candidates or their vote, traveling unfamiliar routes, or rushing to reach polling places either before or after work.

Redelmeier suggested that in order to minimize chances of being involved in a fatal traffic accident this Election Day, drivers should adhere to all traffic laws and avoid distractions by not speeding, properly wearing a seat belt, and avoiding use of alcohol.

 

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