Car travel volume, even with national average gas prices going over the $5 mark, will break previous records as 42 million opt to drive this Independence Day.
-AAA Travel
Fourth of July weekend is here! It looks like the New Jersey highways will be packed with travelers according to AAA’s estimates.
As New Jersey’s top Personal Injury Law Firm, the lawyers at Mintz & Geftic know that holiday weekends tend to bring about some of the most hazardous conditions for drivers. With record traffic expected, this weekend will certainly be no exception.
The Independence Day celebration always includes some potentially dangerous activities, including lighting fireworks, drinking, grilling, swimming, and more. Driving over the Fourth of July weekend is certainly no exception. Whether it’s car accidents, truck accidents, bus accidents, motorcycle accidents or pedestrian accidents, drivers need to be alert!
2022 Fourth of July accident estimates from the nSC
The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates:
- 462 people may die on roads across the US this Fourth of July holiday period. Note the time period being used runs from 6pm Friday, July 1st, through 11:59pm Monday, July 4th.
- 52,700 people will suffer from nonfatal medically consulted injuries during the Fourth of July weekend. As the name suggests, a medically consulted injury is an injury serious enough that a medical professional was consulted.
- 41% of fatalities will involve an alcohol-impaired driver (compared to 30% overall annually. This represents the highest percentage among all of the major holidays.
- Seatbelt usage by front-seat occupants can save 184 lives this holiday weekend. An additional 107 lives could be saved if seat belts are worn by all vehicle occupants.
***These accident personal injury numbers are only estimates. However, historically the NSC has been accurate in their predictions concerning motor vehicle accidents and accident-related injuries and deaths.
HOW TO AVOID THE TRAFFIC
The BEST TIMES to travel On THE FOURTH OF JULY weekend according to Inrix, a transportation data company:
- Thursday: Before 7:00 a.m. or after 8:00 p.m.
- Friday: Before 10:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m.
- Saturday: Before 12:00 p.m. or after 7:00 p.m.
The WORST TIMES to travel for the holiday weekend:
- Thursday: 2:00-8:00 p.m.
- Friday: 12:00-9:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 2:00-4:00 p.m.
***These times were their best estimates from a nationwide perspective, so traffic will vary depending on region, state, city, etc. In addition, one major accident, road closure, thunderstorm could impact things dramatically. The best plan is to have a navigation app available that considers all of these factors in real-time and offers alternative routes.
July fourth safety tips for drivers
distracted driving
Put down the cell phone. If you have a passenger, congratulate them on earning full navigation and cellphone related duties. It only takes a quick glance down to a phone for an accident to occur. Distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of deadly crashes on the fourth of July and every other day of the year.
Seat Belts
As stated in the estimates above, wearing seat belts can save a major number of lives this Fourth of July. It’s somewhat shocking that there’s people that somehow still don’t use seatbelts, but the numbers clearly show there are. This goes for the back seat occupants too of course.
mintz and geftic law firm will fight for you!
We wish everyone a safe and healthy Fourth of July weekend. Please use defensive driving and stay alert on the highways to avoid accidents and serious injuries.
Unfortunately, crashes and injuries can still affect anyone. The personal injury attorneys at our law firm are always here to help when you or a loved one suffer serious injuries from an auto accident. Our legal team is available 24/7, including over holiday weekends. Call or text us at 908-352-2323.
Free consultations are always available with our personal injury lawyers.
We give personal attention to all of our clients. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident, call us today at 908-352-2323 or send us email by clicking here to evaluate your case.
Our car accident injury lawyers serve clients throughout New Jersey and New York, including the cities of Newark, Elizabeth, Jersey City, Hackensack, and Morris, Bergen, Hudson, Union, Somerset, Essex, Mercer and Middlesex counties. Our New Jersey law offices serve clients across the state, including north jersey, central jersey and south jersey. Call us today for a free consultation.
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