Independence Day —a Dangerous Day for Drivers
As West Virginians plan their travel, picnics,parties,and fireworks, themostessential concernthat may be neglected is a focus on safety. It is unfortunate, but the 4thof July is often linked to boat,whitewater raftingandcar accidents, drowsy or drunk driving, speeding, and recklessness on our highways.
In addition to becoming one of our biggest days of national celebration, this day also has become one of the deadliest days of the year for motorists. Whether you are traveling by car, truck, or motorcycle, to keep it fun, you have to keep it safe.
When you are driving on the weekend of the 4th, you may notice an increase in law enforcement patrols and checkpoints during times of celebration. The hope is that the increase in police on the roads will deter recklessness and accidental injuries, collisions, and fatalities. The sight of a patrol car on I-79 or I-68 can be enough to cause drivers to become more careful, to watch their speed and put down distracting electronic devices. Drivers may also be more careful to designate a sober driver for a ride home after the festivities.
Independence Day, or the 4thof July, almost always tops the list for car crashes. Statistics gathered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) over the past 25 years show that nearly half of all deadly crashes on July 4thare related to alcohol.
Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol pose a threat to not just themselves, but also their passengers, other drivers, bikers, and pedestrians. A driver who is intoxicated cannot adequately make decisions and react to traffic in a safe manner, but too many drivers forget this and think they can handle it and people end up hurt or killed by their negligence.
Impaired driving is not only irresponsible; it also carries serious car insurance consequences. If your insurer is notified that you have been convicted of a DUI, your car insurance may be cancelled or non-renewed, or at least the cost to you will increase substantially as you will be classified in a high risk category.
Independence Day should be a time of fun celebration and at Robinette Legal Group, PLLC, we encourage you to have a great holiday but also to keep safety in mind. Never drive after drinking and never let someone else drink and drive. If your celebrations will include alcohol, please use a designated driver or make arrangements other than driving yourself.
If you have been injured in an accident with a negligent or drunk driver, call the Morgantown, WV Car Accident Attorneys at Robinette Legal Group, PLLC today for a free, no-obligation telephone consultation. We are standing by to take your call at (304) 594-1800 or call us after hours at (304) 216-6695. After an accident, it is important to realize that you have rights and that you may have a claim for your damages. Call us today and let us help you towards the path to your best recovery.
Source:
Fox Business, “The 4thof July is the Deadliest Time on the Road,” June 10, 2010.
Jeffery Robinette was admitted to practice law in 1991 and is licensed in all levels of state and federal trial courts in West Virginia. Mr. Robinette is also licensed in all state and federal appeals courts in West Virginia and the United States Supreme Court. As a National Board Certified Trial Attorney who has handled hundreds of motor vehicle, injury, and construction defect claims and a leading author on insurance claims settlement issues and difficulties in West Virginia, Jeff Robinette is uniquely qualified to represent your best interest.
