Independence Day is a day that celebrates freedom, but not freedom from the law. If you're feeling particularly patriotic, then you'd be driving with the family to see a local parade or fireworks display. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), driving during the fourth of July weekend is even more dangerous than driving during the winter months.

Though the fourth is still on Sunday, AAA suggests that motorists be extra-careful starting today until Monday, as most folks extend their weekend celebrations, and there is a high possibility of roads being heavily congested as early as Thursday.

Here are a couple of driving safety tips for you and your family to enjoy this great holiday:

Plan ahead, be patient. - Decide where you want to go this weekend, map out routes and alternate routes to experience less time on the road. Chances are, other people are going to be traveling too. So places like parks, beaches and other summer spots are bound to be packed. The best way to get to any of them is spending less time on the road driving.

Know the schedule of events in your area. - Find out if your local community has plans for gatherings in your area, plan your driving schedule around them to avoid driving and finding yourself stuck until a street parade/party is over.

Park in covered areas. - If you're planning on attending any parades or fireworks displays, park in a covered area. Firework debris falling from the sky may damage your vehicle and cause harm to your family.

Consider having a barbeque at home and invite friends instead. - A great idea of celebrating the fourth of July is having a barbeque or picnic in the backyard and inviting your friends instead.

Read More: Safety Summer Driving Tips for the Fourth of July.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - Impaired Driving Prevention Campaign (June 20 - July 4, 2010)

Labels: driver safety, driver safety tips, fourth of july