MESA — As fireworks lit up the skies this Independence Day, authorities in Mesa, Arizona were battling a more sobering reality on the ground: a nationwide surge in deadly traffic incidents driven by impaired driving.
DUI Arrests Soar Despite Awareness Campaigns
The Mesa Police Department significantly ramped up DUI patrols during the holiday weekend in response to data showing July 4 as one of the deadliest travel periods of the year. According to Detective Richard Giles, the department activated its DUI task force with additional officers on the streets, urging residents to avoid getting behind the wheel while impaired.
“If you’re going to get impaired, don’t drive,” said Detective Giles, emphasizing the availability of ride-share alternatives like Uber and Lyft.
Despite the heightened efforts, Valley-wide arrests for DUI surpassed 1,000, underlining the persistent risk on roadways, as first reported by Hoodline and ABC15.
Nationwide Data Paints Grim Picture
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates an average of 600 traffic-related deaths occur every year during the July 4 holiday. Impairment is involved in roughly 40% of those deaths, highlighting the deadly consequences of irresponsible celebrations.
Additionally, AAA projected a record-breaking 61.6 million Americans would travel by car this Fourth of July — a 2.2% increase from the previous year, making roads more congested and risk-prone. These figures were backed by a WBAL-TV report, citing the National Safety Council’s (NSC) prediction of 437 traffic fatalities over the long weekend.
Legal and Emotional Consequences Multiply
Marc Lamber, a personal injury attorney based in Arizona, reported a surge in distress calls related to holiday weekend accidents.
“My phone is blowing up with people calling me because there have been so many injuries — or worse,” Lamber told ABC15.
The law enforcement presence extended into July 5, with saturation patrols continuing in an effort to prevent further tragedy. Officers focused on prevention over punishment, aiming to keep celebratory spirits from ending in irreversible harm.
Police Push for Personal Responsibility
In his final remarks, Detective Giles issued a somber reminder to residents:
“Be responsible. It’s a celebration, and we don’t want there to be a tragedy on this day or any day.”
Have you or someone you know been affected by impaired driving around the holidays? Share your story in the comments on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com — your voice could help others make safer choices.
