Dangers of Driving on the 4th of July

The 4th of July may be a time to celebrate our nation’s independence and spend time with loved ones, but it can also be filled with danger. The National Safety Council once declared July this country’s deadliest month and the 4th of July the most lethal holiday.

Each year on this holiday, there are countless accidental injuries and deaths that result from fireworks and recreation activities, but none has more of an impact than travel. There are more vehicles on the road on this national holiday, more alcohol consumed, and a higher chance of catastrophic car crashes.

The Dangers of Driving on the 4th of July

If you plan to drive Independence Day, it’s important to understand that you have a higher risk of an accident than on most other days. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, more people on average lose their lives on the 4th of July each year due to car accidents than on any other day of the year.

The IIHS studies five years worth of accident data and found that there was an average of 118.4 fatalities on Independence day, which is 28 more deaths than the average across the rest of the year. This is also a dangerous time for motorcyclists, with an average of 26 deaths compared to 12.1 on other days.

Alcohol Involved in 4th of July Crashes

Many if not most motor vehicle crashes on the 4th of July involve alcohol. According to IIHS data, 47 percent of traffic deaths on Independence Day involved alcohol. When families, friends, or co-workers get together on the 4th of July, they are often out in the sun for hours on end. Many don’t think ahead or make plans about the drive home, which can lead to devastating and life-altering car accidents.

Why Travel Is so Congested on the 4th of July

The roads are often more congested on the 4th of July than on other major holidays. Each year, AAA projects near “record” levels of holiday travel on our nation’s roads, and this is happening for several reasons.

In July, children are out of school for the summer, so families are more apt to make plans for either day trips or longer vacations that require a road trip. Road trips are also an affordable way to take the family for a vacation, as opposed to air travel.

Depending on when during the week the 4th of July falls, there may be a three or four-day weekend, which gives people more time off from work. For example, in 2018 the holiday falls on a Wednesday, so some people might get half a week off from work. This presents an extended danger for anyone who takes to the roads during this period.

Tips for Staying Safe on the Road This 4th of July

If you are planning a road trip, whether to a distant location or in town, you should take some extra steps to keep you and your passengers safe during this busy season. The NHTSA offers some tips for basic safety and accident avoidance.

• Before you leave, perform a basic safety check of your vehicle’s systems. This includes wiper blades, tire pressure, lights, fluid levels, and air conditioning.
• Make sure that your car is recall-free. You can look this up with your VIN.
• Ask that each of your passengers wear their safety belt at all times and make sure that children are secured in the appropriate car seat for their age and weight.
• Leave early so that you won’t feel rushed or frustrated with congested roads.
• If you plan to drink, have a designated driver, use alternate transportation, or arrange a place to stay within walking distance of your destination.
• Make sure you are well-rested before driving a vehicle and stop for frequent breaks.
• Avoid distractions when you are driving, such as cell phones, eating, or other activities.

If an Accident Happens on the 4th of July

Unfortunately, even the people who are the most safety conscious can become involved in severe automobile accidents through no fault of their own. If you or someone you love was injured on the 4th of July in a car crash, you should speak with an Alabama car accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Chip Nix, Attorney at Law, understands these complex cases and will do what is necessary to protect your right to collect the full and fair compensation you deserve. Contact our Montgomery office now at 334-279-7770 or reach us online to schedule a free consultation.