4th Of July Is Deadliest Day For Drivers, Especially For Teens

The 4th of July is supposed to be a day of celebration in America, a day we reflect on our countries independence while celebrating with friends and family. The 4th of July is also the deadliest day for drivers.

A recent report by AAA reveals that approximately 140 road deaths occur each year on 7/4 and that the day is the deadliest for teen drivers and their passengers.

According to the report 10% of July 4 traffic deaths involve teen drivers.

The survey comes shortly after congressional approval was given to provide financial incentives to states that setup graduated licensing programs, such as imposing harsh restrictions on a teenagers ability to drive a vehicle.

Teen driving has become of bigger concern over the last year after 2011 figures showed a decline in traffic deaths to their lowest level since record-keeping started in 1949, while teen deaths actually increased for the first time in eight year.

According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) 39% of July 4, 2010 deaths were linked to drunk driving while 31% of traffic related deaths are normally related to the same crime.

The increase in 4th of July deaths is attributed to several factors, namely that schools are not in session, more people have the day off from work and therefore more vehicles are on the road. Essentially it comes down to a game of numbers mixed with drunken celebrations.

If new state measures go into effect drivers could find themselves with ignition interlock systems installed in their vehicles should they ever be arrested for a DUI. States could also make it harder for teens under the age of 18 to drive without a parent or guardian in the vehicle.