Avoiding a DUI Over Fourth of July Weekend

American flag with glass of liquor alcohol on top

Staying Safe Over Fourth of July Weekend

For many, Independence Day is the biggest summer celebration full of swimming, BBQs, and time with family and friends that ends with fireworks — and a late-night drive home.

This full day of fun, often mixed with alcohol, makes the Fourth of July one of the most dangerous times of the year for roadway fatalities and alcohol-involved crashes.

Safety Statistics

High rates of drinking to celebrate our nation’s birthday combined with more people on the road can lead to tragedy for drivers, pedestrians, and passengers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in a 2014 study, alcohol was a factor in 41% of roadway fatalities during the July Fourth holiday.

In a 2019 study, the NHTSA found:

  • 515 people died in motor vehicle crashes over the July 4th holiday period (6 p.m. July 3 - 5:59 a.m. July 8, 2019).
  • 38% (198) of those fatalities occurred in alcohol-impaired driving crashes.
  • From 2015 to 2019, 1,339 drivers were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes over the 4th of July holiday period. 38% (512) of the drivers killed were alcohol-impaired (BAC of .08+).
  • During the 2019 July 4th holiday, 69% of those who died in alcohol-impaired crashes were in a crash involving at least one driver or motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at or above .15.

Fourth of July Safety Tips

To keep yourself and others around you on the road safe, here are some tips to remember before you head out for your Fourth of July festivities:

  • Arrange a designated driver before heading out to your party.
  • Make sure your guests all have a safe ride home at the end of the night.
  • Drugged driving is also illegal.
  • Use rideshare options such as Lyft and Uber if you do not have a ride home.
  • Dehydration levels tend to rise in hot summer weather, so be sure to pace your drinking.
  • Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.
  • Boating while intoxicated is just as dangerous as driving drunk on the road.

Experienced Springfield DUI Lawyers

We hope you have a safe and fun Fourth of July. At Cole & Martin Attorneys at Law, LLC, we take every case extremely seriously and want you to feel prepared and confident when facing your charges. If you’re charged with a DUI, you can trust our team to walk you through the process.

 

Our attorneys answer any questions, address your concerns with honesty, and provide you with your legal options to pursue a favorable outcome. To book your free consultation, contact our team today by calling (417) 213-5441 or filling out our online form.

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