PANAMA CITY — Americans buy more than 23 million cases of beer on July Fourth, accounting for slightly more than 5 percent of annual beer consumption in the country, according to the Nielson Company.
And it’s no coincidence that July Fourth is the deadliest day of the year for motorists, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Data gathered by NHTSA shows that during the last 25 years, nearly 51 percent of traffic crashes on the 4th involved alcohol.
With that in mind, authorities are urging caution on roadways Thursday, especially with heavy rain and strong thunderstorms expected to continue though the holiday. Serious flash flood warnings are in effect, as well.
“They should be taking all the safety precautions they nomally would in driving in inclement weather,” said Lt. Steve Preston with the Florida Highway Patrol. “They need to utilize their wipers and keep their headlights on, and try drive a little bit further behind the vehicle in front of them. And slow down and try to avoid driving through standing water.”
Thunderstorms were expected to continue overnight Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service, which will likely increase the chance of flooding in the Panama City area July Fourth. Current forecasts include a 100 percent chance of rain July Fourth. Conditions aren’t expected to dry off until Sunday.
An average of 491 traffic deaths occur July Fourth, according to NHTSA. Labor Day, Memorial Day and New Year’s Day are the next most deadly days for motorists, respectively. Most fatal crashes occur on two-lane roads, the NHTSA notes, and more people die driving in the rain than in snow or sleet.
“During all the holiday periods — whether it’s the Fourth of July, or Thanksgiving or Christmas — people are off work and celebrating, and unfortunately some people are consuming alcholic beverages and they choose to drive,” Preston said. “All these holidays, people are off and they’re celebrating, and we encourage them not to drink and drive.”
The American Automobile Association estimates that 40.8 million people will travel more than 50 miles from home this July Fourth.
The Florida Highway Patrol recommends planning a safe route home before traveling for July Fourthcelebrations. It also strongly suggests designating a sober driver, or calling a taxi if someone sober isn’t available. And if someone appears to be driving drunk, FHP urges calling the local authorities.
In any case, Preston, said, law enforcement will be watching during the holiday.
“We’ll be out ramping up and intensifying our DUI enformcent, speed enforcement and seatbelt enforcement,” he said.