The Fourth of July is a time for fun and family. Across the country, people celebrate this holiday with barbeques, pool parties, fireworks, and hometown parades. Unfortunately, there are many dangers associated with fourth of July activities, including DUI-related accidents, swimming pool accidents, and fireworks accidents that can turn a fun-filled day into a tragedy. If you or a loved one sustained injuries in a Fourth of July accident due to another party’s negligent actions, Allen Law could provide you with answers about filing a claim or lawsuit. Call us at (843) 882-5005 to discuss what happened to you or your loved one.
Road Dangers and Safety Tips
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 493 people died in car accidents throughout the Fourth of July holiday in 2021. One of the biggest contributing factors to these accidents is alcohol. Given the number of people who celebrate this day by consuming alcohol, drunk drivers pose a major risk to others on the road. Since many people also travel during the Fourth of July holiday, there is often higher traffic, creating a greater opportunity for accidents. These are some tips that could help keep you and others safe:
- Do not drink and drive. If you plan on drinking this Fourth of July, use a ridesharing service, carpool with a designated driver, or use public transportation.
- Service your vehicle before a road trip. If traveling is part of your Fourth of July plan, be sure to take your vehicle in for maintenance to ensure that it is in good condition.
- Follow the rules of the road. Speeding is another common cause of car accidents during the Fourth of July. No matter where you go on this holiday, be sure to plan ahead, so you have time, and not pressured to drive faster than the posted speed limit.
- Stay focused on the road ahead. Even on a normal day, there are lots of distractions that could take your eyes off the road. On Independence Day, there are other distractions added to the mix – fireworks. While you are driving, always stay focused on the road ahead to avoid being involved in an accident.
Grilling Dangers and Safety Tips
Grilling is another popular Fourth of July activity that has some risks. Grill fires can quickly ignite and spread, so follow these safety tips to prevent an accident:
- Only use your grill outdoors. If anything is near your grill, it could easily catch fire. Although you might be tempted to grill on a covered balcony or inside your garage, these are both dangerous.
- Make sure your grill is placed a distance from the exterior of your home.
- Grills should be on a completely level, flat surface.
- Thoroughly examine your grill for leaks. Chances are you might not grill all year, so anything could happen while your grill is out of use.
- Never allow children near the grill, or adults that may be tipsy.
Boating and Water Dangers and Safety Tips
If you plan on spending time on a boat during Independence Day, you should also be aware of the potential dangers you could face and how to avoid them. Here are some tips that could help keep you safe:
- If you are operating a boat, do not drink alcohol.
- Always maintain awareness of your surroundings.
- Keep your life jacket on at all times.
- Create a float plan that includes the names of everyone on the boat, planned destinations, and expected return time.
- Be aware of boating laws and follow them.
- If you are taking children out for a swim, always make sure you or another responsible adult is closely supervising them.
Firework Dangers and Safety Tips
Fireworks are part of many Fourth of July celebrations. Although they are beautiful, bright, and fun to watch, they can be dangerous. Consider the following safety tips before sparking up:
- Do not let children operate fireworks without parental supervision.
- Do not use fireworks if you have been drinking or using drugs.
- Keep a bucket of water or a house nearby in case an accident occurs, and you need to put out a fire.
- Soak fireworks in water before throwing them away.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Charleston Personal Injury Lawyer
If you were injured in a Fourth of July accident that was caused by another party’s negligence, you should not hesitate to file a personal injury claim, to pursue the compensation you need to get back on your feet. Call Allen Law today at (843) 882-5005 to schedule a free consultation with a Charleston personal injury lawyer from Allen Law.