The Fourth of July holiday is a favorite time of year for many Americans. Backyard parties, good food, and fireworks. But the celebrating unfortunately turns deadly when people drive after drinking alcohol. Drunk driving is a preventable problem on Independence Day each year in the United States.
In 2013, Forbes magazine named the Independence Day holiday “the most dangerous holiday of the year.” In 2013, there were 512 people killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes over the Fourth of July holiday (6 p.m. July 3rd through 5:59 a.m. July 8th). Of those fatalities, 199 (39 percent) occurred in crashes that involved at least one driver or motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 grams per deciliter or higher.
Whether you’ve had way too many or just one too many, it’s never worth the risk to drive impaired. There’s always another way home. This Fourth of July, if law enforcement pulls you over for drunk driving, you will be arrested.
Tips to Avoid Drunk Driving Altogether
- Plan a safe way home before the fun begins.
- Before drinking, designate a sober driver.
- If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely.
- If you see a drunk driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact local law enforcement.
- Remember, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. If you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to safely get to where they are going.
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