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Fourth of July is right around the corner and many people are looking forward to celebrating with friends and family while watching colorful fireworks explode across the night sky. But before you let your guard down, it’s important to be aware that drunk driving accidents spike during Independence Day celebrations each year.
Fourth of July Drunk Driving Statistics
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that this holiday is one of the deadliest days of the year due to the number of accidents caused by drunk drivers. Data from this agency and other safety organizations have found that:
- During the Fourth of July holiday period from 2014-2018, 812 people died in crashes involving drunk drivers.
- 47% of fatal accidents during Fourth of July during another four-year period involved drunk drivers who had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
- In 2018, 71% of those who died in alcohol-impaired crashes were in a crash involving a driver who had a BAC of 0.15% or higher.
How To Celebrate Safely This Holiday
Celebrating safely this holiday is everyone’s responsibility. Prior to going out this Fourth of July, it’s imperative that you create a plan and heed these safety tips to ensure that you have a plan to get home safely and that others do, too:
- Remember that even one drink can diminish your driving skills and ability to make sound decisions behind the wheel.
- Designate a sober driver at the beginning of the night who will not be consuming alcohol, not even one drink.
- If you do have a designated sober driver, have a back-up option that does not involve drinking and driving; for instance, call a taxi, a rideshare vehicle, or take public transportation.
- If you are hosting a Fourth of July celebration, ensure that no one who has consumed alcohol will be driving afterward.
- Know the signs of drunk driving and what to do if you spot a drunk driver on the road.
- Social hosts should also have plenty of non-alcoholic beverage options available.
- Always wear your seat belt and, as a driver, ensure your passengers are wearing them.
If you or a family member is injured in a drunk driving accident this Fourth of July, turn to Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman PLLC for compassionate legal assistance. Contact our attorneys to learn more about your legal rights.
