Drivers in Wisconsin should be careful when the Fourth of July holiday comes up. Every year between June 30 and July 4, there are nearly 200 traffic deaths in America. This same five-day period contributed to 40 percent of all highway deaths between 2007 and 2011 according to the Esurance and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The main reason for this spike in deaths is alcohol intoxication.

The fact that more drivers are on the roads during the Fourth of July weekend is another major factor. AAA estimates that 37.5 million Americans will be traveling at least 50 miles from their homes between June 30 and July 4. Many will be taking unfamiliar routes and thus make themselves more prone to accidents.

Another safety hazard comes in the form of mishandled or malfunctioning fireworks. The U.S. Consumer Safety Product Commission reports that the most commonly injured body parts are the hands and fingers. People could burn their head, face and ears if they are too close to fireworks. While not fatal, such injuries can be debilitating; they could also start fires.

Drinking to excess increases the risk for alcohol poisoning. Food poisoning becomes a possibility as well wherever undercooked meat is served. Monitoring young and inexperienced swimmers is also a good idea because swimming accidents are prevalent on the Fourth of July.

When intoxication and other forms of negligence lead to motor vehicle accidents, victims who were not to blame may wish to file a third-party insurance claim to be covered for their medical expenses, vehicle repair costs and other losses. The process may go more smoothly with a lawyer, who might hire experts to gather the necessary proof and paperwork. The lawyer may handle all negotiations and litigate only if the insurance company refuses to settle out of court.