Americans in Illinois and across the nation are gearing up for one of the biggest holidays of the year. As the 4th of July nears, families will be busy finalizing their plans, making sure travel arrangements are in order, and turning on the barbecue. One thing that may not be getting their focus is the safety of the roads around Independence Day and the significant risk posed by driving during the festivities.
It is unfortunate but the holiday that celebrates America's independence is now linked with drunk driving, speeding, and recklessness on the roads. This combination results to create one of the deadliest days of the year to be a driver or a passenger on a road of any size and in any state in the nation. In fact, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety estimates that 148 people will be killed on the road on the 4th, about 30 percent more than the standard average of 114 fatalities each day.
The increase in the number of traffic fatalities is one of the big reasons that many local law enforcement agencies use heavy patrols of city and county roads during times when celebrations are expected. The belief is that the increase in patrol will allow officers to apprehend dangerous driver before an accident occurs or even deter some drivers from acting negligent in the first place. If a driver notices a heavy police presence, the thought is that the driver may be less likely to text behind the wheel, blow through a stop sign, or speed. Any positive change in driving behavior can save a life.
Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose a threat to everyone in the vicinity, including passengers within their vehicle, other drivers, bicyclists, or even pedestrians. A driver affected by an intoxicating compound cannot adequately make the necessary decisions to ensure a safe drive which is why it is illegal to drive while under the influence. Yet when faced with the possibility of a celebration with families and friends, too many drivers forget this and choose to drive after drinking and people end up hurt or killed.
Independence Day should be a time of fun celebration and at Abels & Annes, P.C., we encourage you to have a great holiday but also to keep safety in mind. Never drive after drinking and never let someone else drink and drive. If your celebrations will include alcohol, consider using a designated driver, taking public transportation, or using a taxi to get around town.
If you have been injured in an accident with a negligent or drunk driver, call the Chicago car accident lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. today for a free, no obligation telephone consultation. We are standing by 24 hours to take your call at (312) 924-7575 or call us toll free at (855) 529-2442. After an accident, it is important to realize that you have rights and that you may have a claim for your damages. Call us today and let us help you towards the path to recovery.
Prior Blog Entries:
Woman Runs Into Building With Car, Injures Baby, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published July 2, 2013.
Pace Van Causes Crash in Roseland, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers Blog, published June 30, 2013.
Resources:
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Research & Stats.
Photo Credit: Greenbay, stock.xchng.
