Fourth of July celebrations may look a little different this year, but families will still gather around the grill and they’ll still enjoy some perhaps smaller firework displays overhead. Let’s make sure safety is also cause for celebration.
Many of the largest Fourth of July gatherings will be dark this in 2020, but backyard parties will still fire up from Turlock to Tulare. A common danger, unfortunately, will also ramp up. The choice to drink and drive.
The Numbers on Fourth of July DUI Accidents
On the Fourth of July 2018, 193 people died in motor vehicle traffic accidents across the nation. An astounding 40% (78) of those fatalities occurred in alcohol-impaired crashes. In those alcohol-related accidents, 71% of the drivers tested for a Blood Alcohol Content of .15 or higher. The US Department of Transportation is getting these frightening statistics out as an early warning this year.
Host a Safe Fourth of July Party
Designated Drivers are the best way to keep drunk drivers off the road. If you host a party for the fourth, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration suggests that you keep your designated drivers in mind. Provide plenty of non-alcoholic drinks for those guests who will be driving. Also, look to end everyone’s drinking earlier in the night.
Firework Displays Going Dark in 2020
2020 is a year of cancellations on many events we look forward to. Visalia has nixed plans for the fireworks show at the ballpark and even had to cancel plans for a first annual Great American Race Run. Fresno won’t be lighting up the skies with a city display either. Merced is shutting down its annual public fireworks extravaganza.
Most if not all public fireworks events have been extinguished for the year, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy an Independence Day celebration with the people we love. Just make it a priority to party safely and get home safely.
Contact a Central Valley Accident Attorney
Not all drivers obey safe driving practices. Undoubtedly, reckless drivers will drink too much and get behind the wheel this 4th of July weekend. If you are involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver anywhere in the Central Valley, contact attorney Martin Gasparian for a free consultation and case evaluation. Mr. Gasparian takes a hands-on approach to every case. He believes that every client should work directly with their lawyer, get honest advice, and personalized attention to detail their case deserves.
