The Fourth of July is a wonderful, landmark, celebratory holiday, full of festivities and grandeur to ring in another year of being our own strong, independent nation. Also, it is the deadliest holiday in modern American. According to a 2017 Esurance study, "40 percent of all highway deaths between 2007 and 2011 were caused by drunk-driving over the Fourth of July weekend." That is about 200 traffic deaths over a 4-day span; a 4-day span that is meant to celebrate the sacrifices of those before us so that we could LIVE this free, American life. The irony. Here are some steps you can take, as well as a couple things to be aware of, to avoid ruining America's birthday party.
Establish a DD
Every smart, capable, sober person knows this ancient rule: establish a designated driver in your group. But while it is so simple, it is very serious. This DD should not drink, should take responsibility for their group's automobile keys and should not waiver when things get messy. The DD isn't simply "not drinking." They are the gateway potentially between life and death.
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From the DD's standpoint: Consider the responsibility and potential consequences that come with the decisions you make in the moment.
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From the friend's standpoint: Consider heavily the friend you want to put a foot down when you are too drunk to use your own.