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Independence Day is a time for celebration, with fireworks lighting up the sky and parades filling the streets. However, amidst the festivities, there is a dark reality that often goes unnoticed — the Fourth of July is the deadliest summer holiday on the roads. The combination of increased travel, alcohol consumption, and crowded events leads to a spike in fatal crashes across the country. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Census Bureau paint a grim picture of the dangers that come with celebrating this holiday.
According to the Jerry insurance app, there has been an average of 429 fatal crashes nationwide on the Fourth of July each year between 2016-2022. This number represents a 17% increase from the average in the previous years of 2008-2015. Additionally, nearly 500 deaths were reported due to impaired drivers over a Fourth holiday weekend in 2022. The combination of speeding, drinking, and drugs was found to be a major factor in almost half, 47%, of the crashes.
The data also reveals that three-quarters of car-crash fatalities on the Fourth are males, with the majority having been drinking. Over half of those killed in crashes are under 40 years old, with two-thirds of the deaths in that age group being related to drinking. The time of day also plays a significant role, with a spike in deadly crashes happening between 9 p.m. and midnight as people drive home from parties and fireworks shows. This uptick continues after 1 a.m. when bar closings add to the danger.
Certain cities and states seem to bear the brunt of the Fourth of July fatalities. Los Angeles, Chicago, and Detroit have the most fatal crashes, with California, Texas, and Florida leading the pack in terms of total crashes, given their size. When measured per capita, Detroit, Memphis, and Kansas City emerge as the worst offenders. Additionally, states like Montana and the Dakotas, with their longer driving distances, also show high rates of fatalities.
The issue of alcohol-related fatalities is not limited to the roads. Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) highlights the problem of boating fatalities involving alcohol during the Fourth of July. The U.S. Coast Guard supports this claim, stating that alcohol amplifies the effects on judgment and reaction times, especially on the water. To combat this, MADD recommends using strategies from the Power of Parents Handbook to educate teens and discourage impaired driving.
In an effort to raise awareness and prevent further tragedies, the Jerry app has compiled a report with revealing charts and insights on Fourth of July fatalities. The data serves as a reminder to celebrate safely and responsibly during this holiday. Remember, fireworks are not the only risk on the Fourth. Stay safe and make smart choices to ensure a joyful and accident-free celebration.
While Independence Day is a time for joy and celebration, it is essential to remember the potential dangers that come with the festivities. By being aware of the risks and making responsible choices, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for all. Let’s prioritize safety and caution this Fourth of July, making it a celebration to remember for all the right reasons.