Americans love to celebrate the 4th of July with family, friends, food, and fireworks. But all too often the festivities turn tragic on the nation's roads. Independence Day marks the birth of our great nation — don’t let it mark the anniversary of a tragic, preventable drunk driving crash. With all the backyard barbecues and gatherings that occur during the July 4th holiday weekend, the number of drunk drivers on the roads can surge.
Independence Day is the third deadliest holiday to drive
"Traffic spikes, partying, drunk driving, and bad decisions all contribute to the deadliest holidays to drive." This is a quote by www.autoinsurance.org based on their 2021 report which studied driving on holidays.
According to their report, Independence Day is the third deadliest holiday to drive. "The Fourth of July is right around the middle of summer break for many students, so it’s a fun time to celebrate with friends and family... Additionally, fatigue plays a serious role in Independence Day deaths. Many Americans use the time off for this holiday to take the family on a short trip, and the long drives lead to tired drivers, which lead to deadly mistakes."
The Cost of Drunk Driving
On average, a DUI can set you back $10,000 in attorney’s fees, fines, court costs, lost time at work, higher insurance rates, car towing, and more. Drinking and driving could cause you to lose your driver’s license and your vehicle. This could inhibit you from getting to work, resulting in lost wages and, potentially, job loss. But if you cause an accident that hurts or kills someone, you'll pay the high price of having to live with that forever.
Celebrate but do so responsibly
Always remember to plan ahead if you will be celebrating. If you plan to drink, plan for a sober driver to take you home. Is it your turn to be the designated driver? Take that role seriously and do not consume alcohol, not even one drink. Celebrate with a nonalcoholic beverage, like a virgin pina colada, and leave the alcohol to the passengers. Remember: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.
Have a happy and safe 4th!
Hot dogs, fireworks, patriotic popsicles… what’s your favorite part of July 4th celebrations? Make sure you’re around for next year’s festivities by committing to sober driving today. If you feel different, you drive different. For more ideas on celebrating life safely, follow our blog.
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