Fourth of July Accident Statistics & Safety Tips

Fourth of July is nearly here and Shook & Stone would like to wish everyone a fun and safe Independence Day! We know that many people choose to celebrate the birth of our nation by going on vacation, enjoying the long weekend in Las Vegas, or spending some time with friends and families at local get-togethers. Whatever your plans are, our attorneys want to remind you about the importance of staying safe.

While the Fourth of July weekend is a time for having fun, it can also be filled with potential dangers. In fact, this time of year is statistically one of the most dangerous holiday weekends across the nation. Take a look at these statistics.

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that the Fourth of July holiday period is one of the deadliest times of year on American roadways, largely as a result of a substantial spike in drunk driving accidents.
• According to data from the NHTSA, 750 people were killed in Fourth of July holiday crashes involving drivers with a BAC of .08 or more (the legal limit) between 2009 and 2013.
• The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that thousands of people – most often small children and younger teens – are injured using consumer fireworks each year. Age groups with the highest risks are children age 0-4 and teens age 10-14.
• More fires in the United States are reported on a typical July 4th than any other day, according to the NFPA. Fireworks account for roughly two out of five of those fires.

To help you and your family stay safe when enjoying the holiday weekend, our attorneys at Shook & Stone have put together some helpful safety tips. As always, we are available to speak with victims after they’ve suffered harm as a result of preventable accidents.

• Drunk Driving – If you plan on drinking, do so responsibly or arrange for a ride before you go out drinking. Help keep our roadways safe – drunk driving is entirely preventable and entirely negligent.
• Fireworks – It’s best to watch fireworks displays conducted by professionals. If you intend to use consumer fireworks, exercise due caution. Light them in open areas away from people and property. Don’t pick up duds or give fireworks to small children. Keep water or fire extinguishers nearby.
• Water Safety – Jumping in the water or a swimming pool is always popular on Fourth of July. Make sure everyone who’ll be enjoying the pool knows how to swim. Also be sure to supervise children closely, make sure pools are properly fenced off, and know how to react in an emergency.
• BBQ Safely – Grilling can be a hazard when not done safely. Be cautious and always supervise the grill whenever it’s on – and make sure charcoal and gas grills are only set up outdoors away from structures or flammable items. Children should be watched closely when near grills.