Independence Day serves as different things for different people. For some, it simply means a day off work. Others will use it as an excuse to have a cookout or swimming party. For most, it involves a fireworks show to end the night. Regardless of what the 4th means to you, it also represents a dangerous holiday.
For many years, July 4thhas ranked as the most deadly day for motorists in the United States. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports data stating that approximately 670 citizens lost their lives in auto accidents on Independence Day between the years of 2007 and 2011. American averages for deaths caused by car accidents on a given day stand at approximately 94. This means that the death tolls due to automobile wrecks on the 4th of July are significantly higher than the national average per day from the same cause.
These numbers are unfortunate, but perhaps this year will be better if drivers and passengers alike play an active role in keeping our roads safer. Automobile accidents are most often caused by distracted driving. Types of distracted driving can involve texting or making calls on a cell phone, emailing, eating, changing the radio station, or any other act that takes the driver’s attention away from the roadway, even if it’s only for a moment. Over the past year, many campaigns against distracted driving have been implemented across the U.S. Distracted driving laws have not only strengthened, but the general population is better educated about the dangers of distracted driving. The knowledge that Georgians now have about distracted driving is greater than ever. At Jones & Swanson, we hope this makes a difference for Georgia roadways this 4th of July. Our personal injury attorneys and staff members are dedicated to setting a good example and hope that our readers will as well. It is important that you not operate a vehicle while distracted not only because it is unsafe, but because it is a bad habit for those watching you to form. Children and teenagers learn from watching others, so set a good example. Whether it’s a text message you want to respond to, and email you need to send, or food that smells irresistible, it can wait. If not, simply find a safe place to park your vehicle before engaging in the distracting activity. You’ll be glad you did in the end.
For more information about what Georgia laws consider distracted driving, contact our experienced auto accident attorneys at (770) 427-5498. We are happy to help. From everyone at Jones & Swanson, have a happy 4th of July!
Categories: Auto Accidents, Drunk Driving, Texting Accidents
