Every part of the year has times when it’s dangerous to be on the roads. In the summer, there are a few dates that are riskier than others. In fact, the time period between Memorial Day and Labor Day, which generally falls during summer vacation for students, is known as the 100 Deadliest Days for teen drivers.
The summer months are also risky because of the few holidays that occur during them. Memorial Day, Labor Day and the Fourth of July, to name a few, are holidays where alcohol consumption is more likely. Holiday parties and gatherings are more likely to result in people getting drunk and then heading home, which results in DUIs and drunk driving collisions.
The deadliest time of the summer is expected to be the week leading up to the Fourth of July in 2021. Summer, according to data from the U.S. Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is the deadliest season and accounts for around 29% of all drunk driving-related fatalities on the roads.
During the summer, you’re also more likely to see drunk driving-related crashes and fatalities on weekends, which are from Friday afternoon through Sunday.
What can you do to make your summer drive safer?
There is nothing that you can do to stop others from driving while they’re drunk or drowsy, but you can take steps to protect yourself. When you’re going out, plan to drive at times when there is less traffic and when people are less likely to be drinking. If you’re going to drive on a holiday, be extra vigilant to look both ways before you make a turn or when you’re approaching other vehicles.
Slowing down may also help make any auto collision less impactful, which could potentially save your life. Take your time to get to your destination safely.
If you are hit, you do have the right to hold an at-fault driver liable for the damage that they’ve caused. Know your rights and responsibilities, so that you can protect yourself if you’re hurt in a car accident with a drunk or reckless driver.
