CONCORD - As Independence Day celebrations are held across the Granite State today and this weekend, the New Hampshire Office of Highway Safety is reminding residents and visitors to have a sober ride to and from their destinations.
Every year, the Fourth of July holiday stands out as one of the deadliest times on the nation's roads, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. From 2018 to 2022, there were 2,228 vehicle crash deaths during the holiday across the United States, of which 1,414 were the driver. Thirty-nine percent (545) of those drivers were drunk. Of the 1,414 drivers killed, the 21-34 age group had the highest percentage (50%) of drunk drivers.
"We hope everyone safely enjoys this Fourth of July while at fireworks shows or gatherings with their families and friends," said New Hampshire Department of Safety Assistant Commissioner Eddie Edwards. "Remember, anyone who has been consuming alcohol or using drugs should not get in the driver's seat."
Members of state, county, and local law enforcement who partner with the NHOHS are increasing patrols on roads throughout New Hampshire to deter and detect impaired drivers this week. Driving impaired has significant penalties in New Hampshire. DWI offenses can cost drivers $10,000 or more in fines and fees, the loss of their license, jail time or worse.
As of Tuesday 52 lives have been lost in 48 crashes on New Hampshire roads so far in 2024. In 2022, the most recent year for which data has been finalized, there were 146 people killed in crashes on New Hampshire roads. Of those crashes, 73 percent were alcohol and/or drug-related. Additionally, from 2016-2022, 854 people died in crashes in New Hampshire. Of those 854 people, 515 (60%) were victims of an alcohol and/or drug-related crash.