In fact,

Some 34.4 million Americans driving this Independence Day weekend, and there’s probably a BBQ at the end of many of their trips. Last Fourth of July, Americans had around 74 million BBQs. They grilled an estimated 155 million hot dogs, and cracked open about 68 million cases of beer. In fact, more beer is sold on Uncle Sam’s birthday than on any other holiday (including St. Patrick’s Day and New Year’s Eve).

Want to learn more about holiday drunk driving?  Take our online class

Unfortunately, all those comings and goings, combined with well-stocked coolers, means more drunk drivers on the road. In fact, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tells us the Fourth of July is the worst day of the year for fatal car crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, Drunk Driving caused 40 percent of all highway deaths between 2007 and 2011 over the Fourth of July weekend.

In fact, here are a few more (hopefully) Sobering Stats:

Over the past 25 years, 51% of all deadly crashes on 4th of July weekend are alcohol-related.

On 4th of July weekend in 2008 (most recent study by the NHTSA), drunk driving statistics show that 43% of the 491 fatalities on the road were a result of alcohol-impaired driving.

On average, an individual drives drunk about 80 times before an arrest.

Make sure this Independence day that you have a designated driver.  It isn’t worth losing you license! You would hate to give up your freedom on Independence day! Check out this blog spot for more info and stats on holiday drunk driving.  Lastly, Have a Happy 4th of July and as always, DRIVE SAFE!