The Fourth of July is one of the most dangerous times to drive

Holidays are a time of celebration, but they also come with a heightened risk of car accidents. Increased travel, crowded roads, and alcohol use can all contribute to more dangerous driving conditions. Some holidays, like the Fourth of July, are particularly hazardous. Understanding how to reduce your risk and what to do if an accident happens can help keep you and your loved ones safe.

6 holiday driving safety tips

1. Stay focused behind the wheel
   Avoid distractions such as texting, checking social media, or fiddling with your GPS. Keep your eyes on the road and your attention on your surroundings. Distracted driving is one of the top three causes of driving related deaths, claiming 3,275 lives in 2023, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. "Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that's like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed," according to an NHTSA rerport. "You cannot drive safely unless the task of driving has your full attention."  
2. Don’t drink and drive
   If you consume alcohol or get high, allow time for it to leave your system before driving. Switch to water or other non-alcoholic drinks well before you plan to leave any festivities. Driving on drugs and alcohol is the number one cause of fatal car accidents. "Every day, about 34 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes — that's one person every 42 minutes," according to the NHTSA. "In 2023, 12,429 people died in alcohol-impaired driving traffic deaths. These deaths were all preventable." And that doesn't include drug-related deaths.
3. Plan for post-fireworks traffic
   Expect heavy congestion after holiday events. Consider waiting a while before hitting the road or find a safe, low-stress route to leave the area. Don't be surprised or agitated by traffic backups. Enjoy yourself instead by leaving early to staying late until traffic eases.
4. Stay calm in traffic
   Patience can go a long way. Avoid aggressive driving, listen to relaxing music, and accept that delays are part of the holiday experience. Getting tense and creating conflict with other drivers only increases your chances of an accident.
5. Wear your seat belt
   Patience can go a long way. Avoid aggressive driving, listen to relaxing music, and accept that delays are part of the holiday experience. Getting tense and creating conflict with other drivers only increases your chances of an accident.
6. Don't speed
   Speeding is a contributing factor is one-third of all fatal car crashes. In 2023, speeding killed 11,775 people.

6 steps to take after a car wreck

1. Seek medical help and call the police at 911
   Prioritize safety. If injuries occur, call emergency services immediately and get medical attention. A police report can be crucial for insurance and legal claims so make sure to call the police so they will file a report.
2. Try to stay calm
   Don't get in a verbal or physical confrontation with the other driver. Let the police do their job. Give police all your information and views on what happened. Never admit it was your fault, especially to the other driver.
3. Notify your insurance company
   Provide your insurer with the details of the crash, including when and where it happened and the extent of any injuries or damage.  Be sure to get insurance information from the other driver at the scene.
4. Keep records
   Gather documentation of all medical treatments, diagnoses, and vehicle damage. These records will support your claim and help ensure proper compensation. If you are not injured and you can stay out of the way of traffic, it's often a good idea to take some photos at the scene.
5. Be cautious with settlement offers
   If the other party’s insurance company contacts you, avoid accepting any settlement before fully understanding your rights. Early offers may not cover all current and future costs.
6. Consult an attorney
   A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate complex legal issues, establish liability, and advocate for full compensation—including future medical expenses.

Final thoughts after a car wreck 

While taking safety precautions can reduce your risk of a holiday car accident, accidents can still happen. If they do, knowing the right steps to take can make a major difference in your physical, emotional, and financial recovery. Stay safe, stay alert, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed.

For a free consultation in Massachusetts, contact Dane Shulman and Associates, 617-298-2500