As the Fourth of July approaches, many of us look forward to celebrating with family and friends, enjoying fireworks, barbecues, and festive gatherings. Amidst the fun and excitement, it’s essential to remember the importance of safety, especially when it comes to driving. While most people are aware of the dangers of drunk driving, the risks associated with buzzed driving—operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) below the legal limit—are often underestimated.
Buzzed driving can be just as dangerous as driving while fully intoxicated. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction times, increasing the likelihood of accidents. This is particularly concerning during holidays like the Fourth of July, when roads are busier with celebrants traveling to and from festivities.
Fourth of July Stats
- In 2022, 487 people died in traffic crashes during the Fourth of July holiday period.
- 40% (196) of those fatalities occurred in drunk driving crashes.
- Of those who died in drunk driving crashes, 27% were in a crash involving at least one driver or motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration at or above .15 g/dL — almost twice the legal limit in almost every state.
- From 2018 to 2022, there were 2,228 traffic crash fatalities during the Fourth of July holiday period.
- 1,414 of those fatalities were a driver.
- 39% (545) of those drivers were drunk.
- The 21-34 age group had the highest percent (50%) of drunk drivers.
Tips for a Safe Fourth of July
- Plan Ahead: If you plan to consume alcohol, arrange for a designated driver, use public transportation, or order a rideshare.
- Host Responsibly: If you’re hosting, make sure there are non-alcoholic beverages and ensure all guests have a safe way to get home.
- Stay Overnight: If you are far from home, consider staying overnight rather than driving back.
- Know Your Limits: Understand how alcohol impacts you; it’s always better to be safe rather than sorry!
This holiday, we want to help you prioritize safety on the roads. Let’s make this Fourth of July memorable for all the right reasons! Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!
