With Labor Day marking the unofficial end to the summer travel season, many families are hitting the road for one last getaway. This means our roads will be busier than usual increasing the risk for accidents, largely caused by impaired or distracted driving.

We all play a vital role in keeping the journey safe for everyone on the road. AAA is partnering with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) on a mission to reduce impaired driving deaths by 20% over the next five years. As we head into the holiday weekend, we urge drivers to look out for one another.

Making sure every ride is a safe one

Looking out for our fellow drivers starts before the celebrations even begin, which is why we encourage all drivers to plan a safe ride home. According to AAA crash data analysis, nearly 1 in 3 summertime traffic deaths involve an impaired driver. Impaired driving is 100% preventable, yet it remains one of the largest factors in summer traffic fatalities. The right choice starts before we even pick up the keys.

Impairment takes many forms and staying safe means recognizing all of them. It's not just alcohol. Cannabis, fatigue and other substances — including certain medications — can all affect your judgment behind the wheel.

Simple ways to look out for each other on the road

• Celebrate responsibly. If your plans include activities that might impair driving, make a plan in advance for a safe ride home.
• Plan ahead. If you've been drinking, taking medication, or feeling tired, arrange for a ride home instead of getting behind the wheel.
• Keep your focus on the road by putting away cellphones, staying alert and limiting distractions.
• Look out for each other. When hitting the road ensure everyone is buckled up and drive with patience and compassion for others.

Making space for safety

Summer is the busiest time of the year for AAA roadside assistance workers. Last Labor Day weekend, AAA came to the rescue of over 40,000 stranded motorists across the Mountain West region alone. To keep roadside workers and drivers safe, every state and the District of Columbia enforce a Slow Down, Move Over (SDMO) law. These laws require drivers to slow down and change lanes, if it's safe to do so, whenever they approach a vehicle stopped on the side of the road.

When we slow down and move over, we're not just following the law, we are taking an active role in protecting the lives of everyone working or waiting on the roadside.

With an influx of travelers hitting the road over a small period of time, remember to put safety first. If you do get behind the wheel, stay alert, slow down, and move over so everyone gets home safe.

Our shared commitment to a safe holiday

By making plans for a safe ride home and staying alert behind the wheel, every one of us plays a part in protecting our friends, neighbors, and families this Labor Day weekend.

Visit AAA.com for more information and resources for safer driving.