Drive Safely During July, the Nation’s Most Deadliest Month
The combination of travel, alcohol, and fireworks has made July the nation’s deadliest driving month and July 4th the most dangerous holiday according to a recent report by the National Safety Council.
As people across the country pack up their cars and hit the road this Independence Day, it is important to note the risks of driving around a holiday.
This year, the National Safety Council estimates 173 traffic deaths will occur over the holiday period which extends from 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 3, to 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, July 4. Nonfatal medically consulted injuries, i.e. injuries serious enough that a medical professional was consulted, are estimated at 17,300.
Driving Safety:
As traffic on the roads increases during the summer months, keep in mind the safety tips below.
· Refrain from using your cell phone while driving
· Put your cell phone on silent or in the glove box to avoid temptation
· Safely pull over and put the vehicle in Park to take or make a call
· Always wear a safety belt – every trip, every time
· Make sure every passenger is wearing his or her safety belt before you begin your drive
· Children should sit in the back and use the proper child safety seat or booster seat
· Never leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle, especially during hot weather
· If you plan to drink, designate a non-drinking driver
· If there is a young driver in your family, strictly enforce a zero tolerance policy with alcohol – all states have a 21-year-old drinking age law
· Never get in the car with an intoxicated driver
· Avoid aggressive driving by keeping your emotions in check and focusing on your own driving
· Don’t tailgate or flash your lights at another driver