Holiday Road

Make an extra effort to buckle up the family and drive safely this weekend.

The Fourth of July holiday is the most dangerous driving time of the year in the United States, according to government reports. Help everyone stay safe by buckling seat belts, securing car seats and boosters, sticking to the speed limit, and driving defensively. If you notice an erratic driver, exit the highway and phone the authorities.

Although most people think winter and spring present the most dangerous driving conditions, research reveals that more people die in road accidents in the United States during summer and fall, which tend to be busier travel times. Also, most fatal crashes occur between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. You can't control all driving conditions, but you can help keep everyone safe by asking your family and other passengers to buckle up, locking doors, staying within 5 miles per hour of the speed limit, and driving defensively. This means not only driving responsibly, but also being aware of other drivers. If you notice an impaired driver or suspect a nearby driver is under the influence of alcohol, use the nearest exit to get off the highway and notify the police.