Statistically Speaking: Accidents and Arrests on the Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is a great holiday. Cookouts, BBQ, fireworks, and freedom: what could be better? Don't worry; FindLaw isn’t here to be a buzzkill. But we want to warn you about common arrests and accidents on the Fourth of July. Because why celebrate the country’s freedom by having yours taken away?

First, here is a little background on the holiday. Fireworks (and alcohol) have been a part of the July 4th celebration since its inception. On July 3, 1776, John Adams wrote to his wife, Abigail, that America's independence “ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other..."

Parades, sports, fireworks, and guns? It sounds like Adams predicted America's annual birthday celebration with uncanny accuracy.

Common Fourth of July Accidents

Unfortunately, accidents and injuries are increasing on the Fourth of July. Independence Day is one of the deadliest days of the year. The causes of these injuries and fatalities probably aren’t surprising — drunk driving, firework accidents, and boating accidents all increase over the Fourth.

Drive Carefully

Part of the reason more car accidents occur on the Fourth is because more people are out on the road than at other times of the year. As with other holidays like Memorial Day, more road trips mean more accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2,228 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes over the Fourth of July holiday period between 2018 and 2022.

Of course, it’s not just the number of drivers. Drinking and driving plays a big role. The NHTSA reported that 39% of fatalities involved an alcohol-impaired driver. This is a greater percentage than any other holiday. Perhaps it's not surprising, since Americans will spend over $4 billion on alcohol this Fourth of July (most of it on beer).

So, you knew this was coming, but don't drink and drive. In addition to increased accidents, DUI arrests spike on the Fourth of July. Law enforcement is aware the Fourth of July weekend is a time for partying, and they are aware of the danger and are often on the lookout for drunk drivers. States that allow DUI checkpoints may have them on the Fourth, as well.

Here Comes the Boom

No country does fireworks better than America on the Fourth of July. But despite our long tradition of fireworks use, accidents occur all the time.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 9,700 people were injured by fireworks during Fourth of July celebrations in 2023. Of the eight deaths, five were from fireworks misuse, while only two were from device malfunctions. That means a lot of preventative measures involve using common sense. But while teenage boys are the most likely to get injured using fireworks on the Fourth, accidents happen across all age and gender groups.

For example, despite how benign they seem, sparklers are responsible for a number of burn injuries to children aged five to nine every July 4th. The CPSC reports that sparklers caused 700 people to get urgent or emergency care. Usually, this was for burns.

So, while sparklers may have once been considered the “firework” that’s safe for children, the CPSC recommends against it. If you do allow children to play with sparklers, they need adult supervision.

Also, remember that states vary in the type of fireworks they allow the public to set off. If you have to cross state lines to get the “good” ones, then be aware that using them on the Fourth in your own state could lead to a citation or even arrest.

Boating Under the Influence

Every state and the federal government prohibits boating under the influence (BUI). It can be easy to have one beer too many out on a boat, especially if you are planning to watch fireworks from the boat. Unfortunately, the combination of water, darkness, and alcohol can be deadly. Just as with driving, the driver of the boat must be sober.

The U.S. Coast Guard reports the highest number of boating accidents happen in July. Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day together account for one-third of all boating fatalities for the year. Eighty percent of fatalities occurred to someone who wasn’t wearing a life jacket.

Other Accidents

Finally, we should mention that swimming and grilling accidents also occur with regularity on the Fourth, particularly to children. If you are celebrating with young children, and it involves swimming, make sure children are aware of safe swimming habits at the pool or beach. And be sure to let children know not to go near your grill; otherwise they’re sure to be tempted by the hot dogs, hamburgers, or ribs you’re cooking up.

No, Really, Have Fun

Despite all of the (unfortunately necessary) warnings, we wish you a fun, safe, and happy Fourth of July. Enjoy those burgers and fireworks!

Related Resources

• Not All DUIs Are Equal (FindLaw's Law and Daily Life)
• Pool Safety and Healthy Swimming Tips (FindLaw's Law and Daily Life)
• Can Children Be Sued? (FindLaw's Law and Daily Life)