Facts You Should Know About Drunk Driving this July 4th Weekend

The 4th of July should be all about fireworks, family, friends and fun. Unfortunately, however, our roads can turn deadly because of more drunk drivers on the road during the holiday period. In fact, there will be a record-breaking number of travelers this year. An expected 46.9 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more this Independence Day. July 4th may be on a Wednesday this year, but during July 4th weekend, which will be June 29 through July 1st, we’ll also see an uptick in drunk driving.

Deadly July 4th Drunk Driving Statistics

In 2016 during the July 4th holiday period*, 188 lives were lost in crashes that involved a drunk driver. This is a 28 percent increase from 2015. These drivers had at least a blood alcohol concentration of .08, which is the nationwide legal limit. And nearly half of the 188 people were involved in a vehicle crash that involved a driver with a BAC of .15 or higher.

With knowing these unfortunate numbers from the last two years, it’s important to turn them around for the better and be proactive with your July 4th festivities.

Stay Safe this July 4th

Let’s be alert this July 4th weekend, and on the actual day, to ensure everyone’s safety, including our own, because drunk driving is 100 percent preventable. Make sure to have a plan when you go out, such as having a ridesharing app handy or appointing a designated driver. You may also need to anticipate other drunk drivers on the road. It is best to avoid the road at night if you need to drive. If you see someone else who you suspect is an impaired driver, make sure to call 911 so they do not hurt anyone or themselves.

Smart Start hopes you have a fun and safe July 4th! If you do need an Ignition Interlock because of a DUI, or if you are considering installing one as an option, Smart Start can help. We are available any day at any time at (800) 831-3299 to answer questions or schedule an installation appointment.

* From July 2 at 6 p.m. to July 6 at 5:59 a.m.

Need an Ignition Interlock?

Smart Start can assist you with getting back on the road safely. Schedule your Ignition Interlock installation appointment at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our online form.