How to Avoid Drunk Driving Accidents on the Fourth of Julyentry-title

Drunk driving is one of the top causes of auto accidents in our country, leading to around a third of all traffic collisions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 29 people in the U.S. die every day due to impaired driving. These numbers tend to go up on holidays, especially July Fourth. Independence Day is one of the deadliest holidays when it comes to drunk driving accidents, and our Murrieta drunk driving accident lawyers want to help your family prepare.

How to Defend Yourself from July Fourth Drunk Driving Accidents

Independence Day is here, which means parties, celebrations and fireworks. However, some of these celebrations include alcohol and can lead to tragedy on the road. Here are a few ways you can protect yourself from this danger.

  1. Avoid Driving Late at Night – In order to get the best view of July Fourth fireworks, many parties will last into the night. When these fireworks are over, many drivers will be hitting the road, and some may have been drinking. Choose a fireworks show that is either in the early evening or near your home to avoid these late-night drunk drivers.
  2. Buckle Up – One of the best defenses you have in the event of any traffic accident is your seatbelt. It reduces the probability of injuries and fatalities in almost every crash situation.
  3. Be Careful at Intersections – Drunk driving accidents often happen at intersections due to the slow reaction times and blurred or double vision experienced by intoxicated drivers. Be extra cautious, look both ways, yield to oncoming traffic and never assume someone will stop for a light or sign. Make sure your path is clear before you proceed.
  4. Maintain a Safe Following Distance – Putting several car lengths between you and other drivers will help you spot erratic driving and give you time to respond to it. If a drunk driver is swerving, speeding up then slowing down, or just acting strange, it’s better to have distance between you and them while also keeping an eye on them. Don’t try to pass a vehicle you suspect is being operated by an impaired driver. Instead, try to find a safe place to pull over and contact the authorities.

Our Murrieta Drunk Driving Lawyers Are Also Here to Help

These tips should help you stay safe for your July Fourth holiday, but even the best preparations can’t prevent every tragedy. If a drunk driver injures you or a family member, our attorneys are here to help. At SD Injury Attorneys, Steven Gnau works hard to help families put their lives back together. He not only has the experience to help, his clients enjoy the quality legal representation and care he provides. Call our Murrieta law firm at (951)370-1111 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation.