This Independence Day, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is warning drivers about the deadly consequences of impaired driving. Drivers should remember that if their Fourth of July holiday plans including drinking alcohol or using drugs, they should plan for a sober driver to get home safely. Remember: If You Feel Difference, You Drive Different.

In 2023, 617 people died in traffic crashes during the Fourth of July holiday period. 38% (233) of those fatalities occurred in drunk driving crashes. From 2019 to 2023, there were 2,653 traffic crash fatalities during the Fourth of July holiday period. 1,679 of those fatalities were a driver. 38% (643) of those drivers were drunk.

“When it comes to alcohol or drug use behind the wheel, just don’t do it,” said Elizabeth Carey, Director of Public Relations at AAA Western and Central New York. “We want our community to enjoy a safe and happy Fourth of July. There are so many safe, reliable ways to get where you want to go. If a driver is planning to use any type of drug, plan ahead for a sober ride or make arrangements to stay overnight.”

According to NHTSA, every day, about 37 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes — that's one person every 39 minutes. Drug-impaired driving is also a major concern for traffic safety. AAA research shows that marijuana can impair drivers in a variety of ways, and marijuana use is becoming more commonplace with the legalization of recreational marijuana in more than half the states in the U.S., including New York. While marijuana usage may be legalized, it remains illegal to use the drug and drive a vehicle.

People who use both alcohol and marijuana are some of the most dangerous drivers on the road – they are significantly more likely to speed, text, intentionally run red lights, and drive aggressively than those who don't, according to data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

AAA’s tips for traffic safety and impaired-free driving — For drivers:

• Choose a designated driver before you go out.
• Use a ridesharing service or a local taxi service.
• Stay with a friend or book a nearby hotel room if you plan to use alcohol or drugs.

For hosts:

• Offer non-alcoholic drink options and never serve minors.
• Stop serving alcohol well before the party ends.
• Remind guests to plan ahead and designate a sober driver.
• Don’t be afraid to take car keys away from guests who are too impaired to drive.
• Help arrange alternate transportation or accommodations for guests who need it.

For everyone:

• Always wear your seatbelt.
• If you spot a motorist who appears to be an impaired driver, keep a safe distance, and call 9-1-1 if it is safe to do so.