Travel Safe, Travel Sober this 4th of July Weekend

As Delawareans and visitors prepare to celebrate the 4th of July this weekend, the Delaware Department of Transportation is reminding everyone to be prepared for increased traffic statewide and to keep safety first whether traveling by car, bus, bicycle, or on foot.

There have been 57 fatalities on Delaware's roads to date in 2026, a 27 percent increase from the same time period in 2025. During the three-day 4th of July weekend last year, there were 215 reported crashes that resulted in 59 injuries and two fatalities.

"We want everyone to celebrate and get to and from their destinations safely," said Secretary of Transportation Shanté Hastings. "This means driving attentively and sober, obeying posted signage, and using sidewalks and crosswalks. Giving yourself extra time to get to your destination and being patient should be the expectation when headed of this weekend."

There will be 11 fireworks displays and numerous events that will attract thousands of attendees throughout the weekend. The Delaware 250 celebration on the Wilmington Riverfront is expected to be the largest gathering on the 4th of July holiday. Drivers should be prepared for delays when traveling in and out of these events. More than 100 DelDOT employees will be assisting with event traffic management over the holiday weekend.

Drivers also need to be responsible and not worsen conditions, such as "Blocking the Box" by not waiting for the intersection to be clear, especially on Route 1 between Lewes and Dewey Beach, causing additional traffic delays and safety issues for all vehicles on the roadway.

To minimize impaired driving, the Office of Highway Safety is offering $20 ride vouchers via Lyft or Uber, from 12:00pm to 6:00pm on Saturday, July 4, at MySoberRides.com, for use between 12:00pm on July 4 and 3:00am on July 5.

DART's Beach Bus is a great alternative to driving around our beach communities, offering free parking and will be the easiest way to travel to and from the Rehoboth Beach fireworks on Sunday, July 5.

The Department urges everyone to do their part to ensure it is a safe holiday weekend!