Freeway Fatalities Expected to Rise Over July 4th Weekend
Typically, the Fourth of July is ranked as the most dangerous American holiday weekend.
Traffic accidents are the number one cause of death or injuries, but this year there could be a decline in the number of collisions and deaths due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Still, there could be as many as 405 people could be fatally injured in traffic accidents in the United States over this year’s Independence Day holiday, according to the National Safety Council (NSC).
This year many families could opt to stay home and forgo traditional travel this holiday due to risks related to the Covid-19 pandemic, but those who do choose car travel will be most at risk for a roadway fatality or injuries.
Indeed, traffic accidents on freeways, highways and other roadways have the highest fatality rate of any major form of transportation.
Additionally, these holidays are often celebrated with excessive alcohol consumption which is a major contributing factor to traffic accidents.
Last year the California Highway Patrol made at least 589 DUI arrests compared to 389 arrests in 2018. There were 12 people killed on California roads in 2019, compared to 18 deaths in 2018, according to CHP statistics. These statistics show that fewer people died last year when the CHP made more arrests.
“There is no question that police enforcement has an impact on roadway safety,” said Attorney James Johnson. “It’s also incumbent upon every driver to ensure they take measures to stop drunk driving or prevent it from happening.”
While the official Independence Day holiday is on Saturday, July 4 this year, the holiday period begins at 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 2rd and rungs through midnight on Sunday, July 5th.
Other injuries and deaths this holiday weekend will likely stem from swimming incidents, fireworks accidents and other mishaps. Just last year there were eight deaths and 11,400 injuries resulting from fireworks accidents only.
Johnson Attorneys Group does not represent any of the parties mentioned above; nor is it our intent to represent any of the parties. If you have legal questions or would like to contribute to this story, please contact us.
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