As the summer months approach, more Americans are venturing outdoors to enjoy the activities that come with warmer weather. Water and car accidents are among the most common causes of summertime injuries. Here are some of the reasons why they happen and what you can do to avoid them.
Accidents in the Water
Whether it is the pool, the lake, or the ocean, everyone likes to cool off in the water during the hot summer months. Drowning is the leading cause of fatality for kids ages 1-4. Even with a parent nearby, small children are still vulnerable in just a few inches of water. Children should wear life jackets around any body of water, regardless of their level of swimming experience. Diving in shallow bodies of water can lead to severe spinal cord damage, even paralysis. Follow the property safety guidelines and only dive in deep water.
Pools should be well-maintained and safe. Property owners that fail to properly maintain and repair pools can be held responsible for injuries caused by their carelessness. Pools should be fenced off to prevent unsupervised children from falling in. Diving boards, steps, and slides should all be in good working order, without broken or loose parts. Flooring around the pool should be level and without cracks to prevent slip and fall accidents.
Accidents on the Road
Memorial Day is also one of the most dangerous weekends of the year on American roads. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports an average of 312 fatal car accidents happened over Memorial Day weekend every year from 2011 – 2015, more than 4th of July and Labor Day weekends. More people are traveling by car than ever – in part because of an improved economy and lower gas prices. More drivers increase the potential for car accidents.
One of the most effective steps every driver can take to prevent a car accident is to pay attention. Distracted driving is proven to be just as dangerous as drunk driving. When your eyes are off the road, you cannot react quickly or avoid collisions. In 2015 alone, 3,477 people were fatally injured in car accidents caused by distracted driving.
Ensuring that your vehicle is well-maintained, up to date on all inspections and services, and addressing any possible recalls helps to prevent dangerous breakdowns. Make sure tires are properly inflated to prevent blowouts that cause rollover accidents. Always keep an emergency kit somewhere in your vehicle. It should include water, a flashlight, first-aid supplies, blankets, and non-perishable snacks.
You do not have to be a summertime accident statistic. With knowledge, preparation, and vigilance, you and your family can have a safe and memorable summer.
Media Personal Injury Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Fight For Accident Victims
Even when we make good choices about safety for our family, we can become injured by another’s carelessness. Whether you are injured in a car accident, a slip and fall accident, or because of a defective product or service, Media personal injury lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. will help. We are aggressive about fighting for the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses, loss of income, and pain and suffering. We fight so you can focus on recovery. Call our Media, Pennsylvania office at 610-565-3701 or contact us online. Eckell Sparks also has an office in West Chester to serve clients throughout Pennsylvania.