July is marked as the deadliest month of the year, according to the National Safety Council. NSC statistics show that preventable deaths are 11% higher this month than the national average, which also means an increase in fatal car crashes. Amy Artuso with the National Safety Council says crashes involving speeding and alcohol go up in the summer and cell phone use increases crashes even when using a hands-free device. The summer month is also prime time for drownings to occur with people outdoors and going on vacation.