More Fireworks Accidents & DUI Checkpoints On 4th of July
As we pack our bags and load our families into the car for the time honored tradition of 4th of July weekend travel, be aware of the conditions around you. If driving, be sure to focus on the road and avoid distractions. This holiday weekend is traditionally the deadliest time to be on the road.
Even if you choose not to enjoy the holiday with a refreshing cocktail, remember many others do. It may not be your driving that causes an accident. Always be aware of the vehicles around you.
If you do choose to consume alcohol, remember to be responsible when determining whether to operate a motor vehicle. Law enforcement agencies all around Florida will have additional officers patrolling for suspected DUI offenders, even setting up checkpoints on popular travel routes. The easiest way to avoid the possibility of running afoul of the law is to have a designated driver or use ride-share programs like Uber or Lyft.
If you don’t follow this simple advice and find yourself on the wrong side of the law, Cohen Law Group can still help your situation by vigorously defending you against any DUI related charges.
In 2014, over the 4th of July holiday, 164 people were killed in automobile accidents with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. That is 41% of the 397 people killed over the 4th of July Period.
Spending Your Holiday On The Water?
Be sure to keep safety on your mind. Boating in Florida can be enjoyable for the entire family, but it can also be dangerous. Make sure your vessel meets all local and federal safety requirements. Always be aware of other boaters as they may not have extensive experience operating a water vessel.
And remember, DUI laws apply to the operation of a marine vessel within the waterways and jurisdiction of Florida. If you find yourself charged with DUI while operating a water vessel, Cohen Law Group can help by evaluating your case and defending your rights.
July is already the highest month for boat accidents but the 4th of July weekend is the highest weekend of the year for boat accidents
Detailed Traffic Statistics as report by the Florida Highway Patrol for 2011 Florida State Troopers:
- Charged 90 people with DUI
- Issued 8,541 Traffic Citations
- Issued 3,257 Speeding Tikcets
- Issued 1,060 Seatbelt violations
- Assisted 2,221 Motorists
Firework Safety
Lastly, fireworks are a fun part of many families Holiday celebration. While exciting and fun, they can also cause serious injury if used incorrectly. Always have an adult present when using fireworks.
Do not use old fireworks as they may be damaged or operate improperly. And remain a safe distance from any fireworks being set off. If you find yourself injured during a fireworks display or injure yourself, Cohen Law Group can review your situation to determine if there may be coverage for your injuries.
- In 2014 there was an estimated 10,500 Fireworks related Injuries
- There was an estimate 11 deaths related to fireworks in 2014
The 4th of July Holiday weekend is a time to relax and enjoy family and friends. But if that enjoyment is interrupted by law enforcement or injury, Cohen Law Group is there to help protect your rights.
References:
https://www.uscgboating.org/library/accident-statistics/Recreational-Boating-Statistics-2014.pdf
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