The National Safety Council (NSC) is reminding drivers to be safe on the roads during the Fourth of July holiday period and remember that the target for road deaths is always zero.
Predicting more than 160 roadway deaths during the holiday period and an additional 18,600 serious injuries, the NSC urges motorists to be particularly vigilant about impaired drivers and to designate sober drivers themselves.
“By sharing these estimates, the NSC hopes to highlight the importance of being a safe, sober and attentive driver so that everyone can safely celebrate this July 4 holiday,” said NSC President and CEO Deborah A.P. Hersman. “Independence Day should be about spending time with loved ones and watching fireworks, not about dealing with the tragic aftermath of a car crash.”
NSC analysis found that during the 2016 Independence Day period, 41 percent of fatalities involved an alcohol-impaired driver, the highest percentage among all the major holidays.
The AAA has already issued a warning to drivers that a record-breaking 46.9 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more away from home between Tuesday, July 3 and Sunday, July 8, with Tuesday dubbed “Terrible Tuesday”.
For tips on ensuring a safe drive during the Independence Day holiday period, download eDriving’s free SMART Driving Principles Guide.
