"More die in car crashes on election days
CHICAGO - Could voting for president be hazardous to your health?
An analysis of Election Day traffic deaths dating back to Jimmy Carter's 1976 win suggests yes, but the authors say that's no reason not to vote. The study found that on average, 24 more people died in car crashes during voting hours on presidential election days than on other Tuesdays during October and November.
The results were pretty consistent on all eight presidential election days that were analyzed, up to George W. Bush's victory over John F. Kerry in 2004. Rushing to get to polling places before or after work, driving on unfamiliar routes, and being distracted by thinking about the candidates were among possible reasons.
"This is one of the most off-the-wall things I've ever read, but the science is good," said Roy Lucke, senior scientist at Northwestern University's Center for Public Safety (AP)."
Looks like I won't be going to the polls after all -- as if it mattered!
