4th of July Safety

1. Don’t Drink and Drive—or Boat

One of the most common legal issues over the Fourth of July is impaired driving. Law enforcement agencies increase patrols and DUI checkpoints throughout the weekend, and prosecutors often pursue these charges aggressively.

Importantly, these rules also apply on the water. BoatingUnder the Influence (BUI) is illegal in Montana and can carry the same penalties as a DUI—including fines, jail time, and license suspension. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a car or captaining a boat, the safest (and smartest) choice is to stay sober or appoint a designated driver.

Legal Tip: If you are pulled over or stopped on the water, remember that you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. You are not required to answer potentially incriminating questions, and you may politely decline field sobriety tests, though refusing a breath or blood test may have legal consequences under Montana’s implied consent laws.

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2. Fireworks Are Fun—But They Can Also Be Dangerous

Each year, thousands of Americans are injured in fireworks accidents. While Montana allows consumer-grade fireworks in many areas, cities and counties can impose their own restrictions. Violating these rules canresult in fines or even criminal charges, especially if someone is injured or property is damaged.

To avoid both injuries and legal issues:

• Only     use fireworks purchased from licensed vendors.
• Follow     all local laws and curfews regarding fireworks.
• Keep a     bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby.
• Never     relight a “dud” or use fireworks near dry grass, homes, or structures.

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Injury Risk: If you or a loved one is injured due to someone else's negligent use of fireworks—especially in a crowded public or residential setting—you may be entitled to compensation for medical costs, lost wages, or emotional distress. Our team is here to help if that happens.

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3. Be Mindful of Pets and Children

Fireworks can be stressful and even dangerous for pets and small children. Loud noises may cause dogs or cats to flee, and small children are especially vulnerable to burns or injuries from sparklers, bottle rockets,and firecrackers.

Some quick tips:

• Keep     pets indoors with a safe, quiet space during fireworks.
• Don’t     allow children to handle fireworks or lighters.
• Supervise     all outdoor play and keep emergency contacts handy.

As personal injury attorneys, we’ve seen firsthand how a moment of carelessness can turn a celebration into a tragedy. A little vigilance goes a long way.

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4. Stay Alert on Montana’s Lakes and Roads

Summer holidays bring more traffic and more crowded conditions on both highways and waterways. Whether you’re heading to Flathead Lake or floating the Clark Fork River, stay alert and operate your vehicle—or boat—with caution.

Injuries from boating collisions, ATV rollovers, and roadside accidents spike over this weekend. If someone’s negligence or recklessness results in your injury, it’s essential to document what happened and contact a lawyer right away.

Pro Tip: Take photos, get witness names, and avoid making statements to insurers until you’ve spoken with an attorney.

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5. Know Your Rights—and When to Call a Lawyer

Encounters with police or park rangers are more likely during holiday weekends. If you’re stopped, questioned, or arrested, it’s critical to stay calm and know your rights:

• You     have the right to remain silent.
• You     have the right to refuse searches unless the officer has a warrant or     legal justification.
• You     have the right to an attorney—invoke it early and clearly.

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Whether you’re facing a misdemeanor fireworks violation, a DUI charge, or a boating-related injury claim, early legal counsel can make all the difference. At Ryan, Miller & Coburn, we handle cases across criminal defense, personal injury, and medical malpractice, and we’re proud to defend Montanans’ rights.

Wishing You a Safe and Joyful Fourth of July

Celebrating freedom doesn’t mean risking your safety—or someone else’s. We encourage all our friends, neighbors, and clients to have fun, be smart, and take steps to prevent accidents and avoid legal trouble. If something goes wrong, you don’t have to face it alone.

Call us anytime—we’re here to help.

– RMC Attorneys

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