Drunk Drivers on July 4th
Americans love celebrating the Fourth of July and for many it has become a staple in our family traditions. Therefore, while all the stars and stripes are going up on in our neighborhoods it is important to touch on how you and your family members can ensure a safe holiday. We have already touched on the dangers of fireworks-related accidents, but what about the topic of automobile accidents on the 4th?
Believe it or not, the Fourth of July ranks as one of the deadliest holidays for travelers. Why??
Alcohol.
While we may be blaring Neil Diamond’s “America” and throwing back some cocktails, the celebration should never get out of hand. Consider some of the statistics below founded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:
- 2012: an estimated 10,322 fatalities involved in drunk driving accidents----78 of them died during Independence Day alone
- 40 percent (40%) of fatalities in crashes were during this holiday because of a drunk driver
- During the July holiday period in 2012, the rate of alcohol impairment among drivers involved in a fatal crash was almost 2.5 times higher at night than during the day
Think of how many times you have had to drive back home after going to watch a firework display in your hometown? A terrifying thought knowing that people choose to get on the road after drinking too much!
On behalf of Kaine Law, we hope you celebrate and drive responsibility this July 4th. Don’t be ashamed to ask for a ride or call someone to drive you home. We wish you a very safe and happy fourth of July!