WASHINGTON, D.C., June 27, 2011 – The Fourth of July is a fun-filled day spent out in the sun and into the night enjoying barbeque, fireworks, and other special traditions. It is the time of year where across America, friends and families celebrates the country’s Independence Day. During such holidays, GEICO reminds drivers to be extra cautious as roads are exceptionally busy and distractions are everywhere.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports 721 people were killed in crashes during the 4th of July holidays in 2009, well over the number of road fatalities the year before.
In order to help stay safe behind the wheel, GEICO offers the following "do’s" and "don’ts" so you, and your family and friends have a better chance of getting home safely after a long, eventful day:
DO’S
- Do buckle up and tell everyone in the car to do the same.
- Do pull over if you have to respond to an urgent text or call.
- Do designate a non-drinking driver before you begin your holiday celebrations.
- Do pay attention to your surroundings. You may have a designated driver, but others on the road may not.
DON’TS
- Do not text while driving. It is a major distraction and illegal in many states.
- Do not drink and drive.
- Do not speed, especially with overly crowded roads. Everyone is trying to get somewhere. There is no need to put others in danger.
As an alternative to drunk driving, check your local communities for free cab services. In the Washington Metro area, GEICO works with the Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP) as a sponsor of SoberRide, providing free cab rides. People needing a ride can call 1-800-200-TAXI. Please remember to stay safe and make the right decisions when getting behind the wheel.
GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) is a member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies and is the third-largest private passenger auto insurance company in the United States. GEICO provides millions of auto insurance quotes to U.S. drivers annually. The company is pleased to serve more than 11 million private passenger customers and insures more than 18 million vehicles (auto & cycle).
GEICO's online service center helps policyholders take care of policy sales, policy changes, claims reporting and to print insurance ID cards.
GEICO also provides insurance quotes on motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), travel trailers and motorhomes (RVs). Coverage for boats, life, homes and apartments is written by non-affiliated insurance companies and is secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Commercial auto insurance and personal umbrella protection are also available.
For more information, go to www.geico.com.
