In 2023 alone, drunk driving claimed 233 lives during the Independence Day holiday period, accounting for 38% of all traffic fatalities, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. On the water, alcohol remains the leading cause of fatal boating crashes, responsible for 79 deaths last year—roughly 17% of all boating-related fatalities—according to the U.S. Coast Guard.
“Independence Day is a day of celebration with family and friends,” said MADD CEO Stacey D. Stewart. “Whether you’re hitting the road, heading out on the water, or staying close to home, smart choices save lives—and help make sure everyone gets back to their loved ones safely.”
MADD’s Safe Summer initiative aims to reduce impaired driving during high-risk holidays like the Fourth of July and Labor Day. As more Americans travel, gather and take to the roads and waterways, the organization is urging people to take simple, life-saving precautions: plan a sober ride, avoid mixing alcohol with any form of vehicle use—including boats and golf carts—and wait until you’re off the water to start drinking.
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is also partnering with Uber over the Fourth of July weekend to help curb impaired driving. As part of the collaboration, the two organizations will offer discounted ride codes in select U.S. cities starting Friday, July 4, with codes redeemable throughout the holiday weekend.
Research continues to show that ride-sharing services help reduce alcohol-related crashes. According to a 2017 study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, access to services like Uber is associated with a decrease in alcohol-involved traffic fatalities.
The risks extend beyond adults. With teens out of school for summer, crash rates involving young drivers also spike. Between 2010 and 2019, more than 7,000 people were killed in summer crashes involving teens. On average, over 1,000 lives are lost each year during the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day, according to AAA.
MADD encourages parents to talk early and often with their teens about safe driving. Its Power of Parents handbook provides practical tools and conversation starters to help young drivers make safer choices behind the wheel.
The message this holiday is simple: Celebrate responsibly. Whether on the road or the water, a few smart decisions can mean the difference between tragedy and a safe return home.