Driving Safety Tips for the 4th of July

With all of the excitement surrounding the Fourth of July holiday, it is important motorists remember that it is also the deadliest day of the year to be on the road. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), more people die in motor vehicle accidents on July 4th than any other day of the year. This is based on an analysis of the five most recent years of fatal-crash data.

An average of 118.4 people died in car crashes on July 4th compared with an overall daily average of about 90 fatalities, from 2010 to 2014. New Year’s Day was the second worst day for motor vehicle crash deaths during the same study period, with an average total of 118.2 deaths.

The IIHS attributes motorcycle crashes and driving under the influence to the high rate of driving fatalities on the Fourth of July. However, there are additional factors that make the holiday especially dangerous for motorists, motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians alike.

Generally, there is more road congestion and drivers may be navigating areas beyond their normal commutes, particularly if they are traveling over the holiday. So if you plan on hitting the road this Fourth of July, remember these driving safety tips:

1. Follow the Rules of the Road: If everyone buckled-up, did not drink and drive, and obeyed the speed limit there would be a lot less driving fatalities on the Fourth of July.
2. Motorcycle Safety: Motorcycle crashes play a significant role in the deaths that occur on the Fourth of July. Always wear a helmet and protective gear. If you are considering a bike purchase, make sure the bike has anti-lock brakes (which is increasingly becoming the standard on motorcycles). ABS can reduce your risk of dying in a crash by nearly a third.
3. Take Precautions: Have a trusted mechanic inspect your car, before traveling a long distance. Make sure and have the oil level, tire pressure and coolant checked, as cars can easily overheat while stuck in traffic during the summer heat.
4. Timing is Everything: While the days surrounding July 4th are dangerous, they are not as dangerous as the day itself. Plan your arrival and departure accordingly and avoid being on the roads during high-traffic times.
5. Use the 3-Second Rule: Make sure you establish a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of you.
6. Know Where You Are Going: Print and review the directions ahead of time. Avoid viewing directions on your phone while driving.
7. Remember to Minimize Distractions: This not only means electronic devices, but also distractions from passengers. Keep your focus on the road at all times.
8. Get Plenty of Rest: While a long car ride may be relaxing for the passengers, it is not a time for the driver to let their guard down. Plan on taking frequent breaks and rotating drivers whenever possible.

We Want Everyone To Have A Safe 4th of July Holiday

We want you to stay safe on the roads this Fourth of July weekend. If you or a loved one are involved in a car accident or suffer injury as a result of someone else’s negligence over the 4th of July Holiday Weekend, it is important that you contact an experienced Orlando Auto Accident Attorney immediately. Our experienced team of car accident attorneys can help you obtain compensation for medical bills, future medical treatment, loss of wages, pain and suffering, etc. Feel free to fill out our quick contact form on this page or call 407-422-4529 to discuss your legal options in greater detail.