You might want to think twice before you get behind the wheel of a car on the 4th of July. Statistics show that this can be one of the most dangerous days of the year to travel, even a short distance. Each year on Independence Day, people get together to celebrate, and this can pose a danger if someone decided to drive while under the influence.
Why Is It Dangerous to Drive on the 4th of July?
Statistically speaking, there are higher accident, injury, and fatality rates on our nation’s roads on the 4th of July than on any other major holiday or any other day. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety studied this matter over a five-year period and found that this is the one holiday with the highest accident and fatality rate.
According to the IIHS, approximately 118.4 lives are lost each year on the 4th of July due to motor vehicle accidents. In comparison, the average on other days of the year is 90. Motorcyclists also face a higher risk of death, with an average of 26 fatalities on this day versus 12.1 over the rest of the year.
There Are More People Driving on the 4th of July
In general, there are more people on the road during the 4th of July, and some may be driving in areas with they have little to no familiarity. If the holiday falls mid-week, this can result in an extended weekend for workers, giving more incentive to take a road trip.
Major Causes of 4th of July Accidents
One of the primary factors in these accidents is alcohol. The IIHS reports that nearly half (47 percent) of the 4th of July accidents had alcohol as a factor. When people spend hours, or an entire day, outdoors drinking alcohol, this can lead to poor decisions and tragic consequences on the way home.
Another factor that can lead to dangerous and deadly crashes is distracted driving. When a driver is looking at their cell phone, playing with the stereo or GPS, or having fun with other passengers, they are not paying attention to the road. Even if you think that you are being safe by using “hands-free,” AAA shows that this is also a form of distracted driving.
When you’ve been out in the sun all day, even if you didn’t drink alcohol, it can be dangerous to get behind the wheel of a car if you are fatigued or dehydrated. Either of these conditions can cause you to quickly lose focus and create conditions that will lead to a crash.
Prevent Drunk Driving and DUI on the 4th of July
It might sound like an excellent idea to celebrate Independence Day with a host of family and friends, but only if you do so responsibly. Based on years of experience defending DUI cases, it’s simply not worth it to drink and then get behind the wheel of a car.
You don’t want to become one of these statistics and having a DUI on your record can have lasting consequences. Law enforcement generally steps up its efforts on this holiday, so you should take the following steps to prevent drunk driving accidents:
- Know your limits. Alabama’s threshold for DUI is 0.08%, but alcohol affects everyone differently. If you have more than one drink, don’t drive.
- Have a designated driver. The best option if you plan to drink at all is to have a designated sober driver.
- Use alternative transportation. If no one is sober enough to drive, either take a cab or use a ridesharing service.
- Have a place to stay. You might also consider staying with friends or in a nearby hotel.
- Never ride with a drunk driver. Avoid looking for the “least drunk” person to drive. It’s never a good idea to get into a car with someone who has been drinking.
Speak with a Qualified Mobile DUI Defense Attorney
If you are pulled over and arrested for DUI, you have rights. It would be a mistake to try fighting one of these cases on your own or, worse, resign yourself to your fate. At Darley Law, LLC, our experienced Alabama DUI defense attorneys will take the necessary actions to protect your rights and liberty in this difficult time.
Contact our Mobile office now at 251-441-7772 or reach us online to schedule an initial consultation.