Every Fourth of July, millions of Americans pack their vehicles, load up coolers, and head toward beaches, lakes, campgrounds, family cookouts, and fireworks displays.
This year will be no different.
AAA estimates more than 2.1 million Virginians will travel during the Independence Day holiday, while 72.2 million Americans are expected to travel nationwide—making it one of the busiest holiday travel periods of the year. Most of those travelers will be driving.
More cars on the road means more opportunities for crashes, especially on highways throughout Central Virginia, including US-29, Route 460, Route 501, Route 151, and Interstate 81.
Whether you’re traveling across Virginia or just heading across town for fireworks, a little preparation can make a big difference.
1. Leave Earlier Than You Think
Holiday traffic builds quickly, especially during the afternoon and early evening.
If your schedule allows, leaving earlier in the morning—or waiting until later in the evening—can help you avoid some of the heaviest congestion.
2. Eliminate Distractions Before You Drive
Set your GPS before pulling away.
Choose your music ahead of time.
Put your phone on “Do Not Disturb While Driving.”
A text message simply isn’t worth taking your eyes off the road.
3. Never Drive Impaired
July Fourth consistently ranks among the deadliest holidays for impaired driving.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 38% of drivers killed during Fourth of July holiday crashes from 2020-2024 were impaired by alcohol.
If you’re celebrating:
- Designate a sober driver.
- Call a rideshare.
- Stay the night.
There is always another option.
4. Expect the Unexpected
Holiday weekends bring out everyone—from experienced road trippers to first-time vacation drivers, motorcycles, boats being towed, bicycles, and pedestrians heading to fireworks events.
Give yourself extra following distance and assume other drivers may make sudden decisions.
5. Buckle Everyone In
It sounds simple because it is.
Seat belts remain one of the most effective ways to reduce serious injuries in a crash.
Before pulling away, make sure every passenger—including children—is properly restrained.
6. Check Your Vehicle Before You Leave
A quick five-minute inspection can save hours of frustration.
Check:
- Tire pressure
- Fuel level
- Windshield wipers
- Lights
- Engine fluids
AAA responds to hundreds of thousands of roadside assistance calls during holiday travel weeks, many of which could be prevented with basic maintenance.
7. Know What to Do After a Crash
If you’re involved in an accident:
- Move to a safe location if possible.
- Call 911.
- Exchange insurance information.
- Take photos of the vehicles, roadway, and scene.
- Seek medical attention—even if injuries seem minor.
- Avoid discussing fault before speaking with your insurance company.
Some injuries don’t appear until hours—or even days—later.
We Hope You Never Need Us
But if someone else’s negligence turns your celebration into something far different, we’re here to help you understand your rights and navigate the road ahead. Whether you’re traveling through Lynchburg, Rustburg, Bedford, Forest, Amherst, Appomattox, or anywhere across Central Virginia, taking a few extra precautions before you hit the road can make all the difference. If the unexpected happens, the team at Overbey, Hawkins, Wright & Vance is here to help.
From our family to yours, have a safe and happy Fourth of July.
