The Fourth of July has been ranked the deadliest day of the year on the road since as far back as 2000, and this year it is expected to be the deadliest Independence Day holiday in seven years. If you can find a way to enjoy your holiday at home, this would be the year to do it.
Holiday accidents involve heavy traveling, which only increases when the 4th lands on a weekend, but you don’t have to be traveling to get caught up in a wreck. This weekend, more than usual, you need to be vigilant during your local driving too.
The Deadliest Day of the Year
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Fourth of July has been the deadliest day of the year all the way from 2000 through 2013. It is a heavy travel day, and a day of alcohol-fueled celebrations. It is the second deadliest day of the year for drunk drivers. In 42% of 4th of July accidents, at least one driver tests over the legal limit for alcohol.
The Fourth of July is Expected to be Even Deadlier this Year
The National Safety Council (NSC) predicts that this will be the deadliest Fourth of July holiday in seven years. The three day weekend and lower gas prices set us up for more travelers and more fatigued drivers in addition to drunk drivers.
The NSC estimates that there will be 409 deaths and 49,500 injuries on the road this 4th of July weekend. You don’t have to be one of them.
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