Fourth of July drunk driving accidents – and their statistics – are a powerful motivator. As you make your plans for the upcoming 4th of July holiday celebrations, make sure that your plans include a safe ride home, especially if your plans include consuming alcoholic beverages.
When celebrating Independence Day many Americans enjoy celebrating the occasion with fireworks, barbeques and alcoholic drinks. Though this may sound like a fun, exciting gathering, it can turn into a life-altering day for you or others if Fourth of July drunk driving accidents should occur.
The Fourth of July ranks high on the list for the deadliest holiday weekends. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation Traffic Safety, during the 2015 Fourth of July holiday, which is considered to be from 6 p.m. July 2 to 5:59 a.m. July 6, there were 146 fatalities from crashes involving at least one impaired driver with a blood alcohol concentration, or BAC of .08 or higher. During this same time frame, 92 people died in vehicle accidents which involved an impaired driver with a BAC of .15 or higher which is nearly twice the legal limit.
Impaired driving can have very serious ramifications for those involved. While no one plans for an accident to happen, car crashes do occur. Being a responsible citizen and planning ahead can help to prevent some accidents due to drunk driving.
Prevent Fourth of July Drunk Driving Accidents on Southwest Florida Roads
Careful planning can help to prevent drunk driving fatalities. Some things to remember when planning your holiday celebration:
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- Make sure that everyone has made arrangements for a safe way home if they are planning to consume alcohol.
- Have a relative or friend pledge to be the designated driver for the evening.
- Before drinking make sure your designated driver will stay sober and give them your keys.
- Call a taxi or other ride share programs such as Uber of Lyft.
- If you are the designated driver, don’t text and drive, stay alert and abide by the speed limits.
- Buckle up and make sure all occupants in the vehicle are using safety restraints.
- If you encounter a drunk driver do not attempt to stop them, keep your distance and don’t hesitate to contact local law enforcement.
Contact Our Experienced Staff to Help You with DUI Questions
If you have been involved in Fourth of July drunk driving accidents, contact the attorneys at Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice and Purtz. There are many factors involved in a DUI case and our attorneys have extensive knowledge with these types of cases. We have six offices in Southwest Florida. Our offices are conveniently located in Fort Myers (two offices to serve you), Cape Coral, Naples, Lehigh and Port Charlotte. Call us today to schedule your appointment for a free consultation.