The Fourth of July is the perfect time to relax, whip up your favorite Independence Day dishes, and bond with friends and family. Unfortunately, this holiday comes with a multitude of dangers that can cause serious injuries or worse.
According to the Los Angeles Times, July Fourth is the deadliest holiday period of the year. In 2013, 385 people died and 41,200 sustained injuries.
Fortunately, you can reduce your risk of becoming a statistic by knowing how to avoid the most common Independence Day dangers, which include:
- Auto accidents;
- Slips and falls;
- And defective grills.
If the worst happens and you suffer an injury due to another person’s negligence on July Fourth, contact Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC. A Cedar Rapids personal-injury lawyer will evaluate your case to determine if you may be entitled to compensation for health-care bills, lost income and noneconomic damages.
Call 319-393-1020 to schedule a free initial consultation. You can also visit USAttorneys.com to learn more about injury lawsuits.
Here are the three deadly dangers you should avoid over the July Fourth holiday period:
1. Auto Accidents
Due to increased alcohol consumption and traffic congestion, car accident rates spike on Independence Day. During the July Fourth holiday period in 2014, 164 people died in crashes that involved at least one driver or motorcyclist with a blood alcohol concentration over 0.08 percent, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Instead of driving under the influence, use a rideshare service such as Lyft or Uber. You could also call one of these Cedar Rapids taxi companies:
- Century Cab: 319-365-0505
- American Class Taxi: 319-363-8294
If you choose to stay sober over the weekend, be mindful of the fact that there will be drunk drivers on the roads. Keep your distance from motorists who show signs of intoxication.
2. Slips and Falls
Slip and fall accidents are common over the holidays. This is particularly true on July Fourth because it happens in mid-summer, so many people celebrate around pools.
If you are hosting a pool party, make sure an adult supervises the children at all times. Enforce a strict no-running policy near the poolside, and install slip-resistant gripping on ladders and stairs that are adjacent to the pool.
3. Defective Grills
July Fourth is the perfect time to break out the barbeque. Unfortunately, a defect in your grill can be deadly – even if you use it correctly.
A mistake in the design, manufacturing or vending of grills can contribute to serious burns. In addition to the initial pain, a burn can cause permanent scarring and disfigurement.
You should only purchase a grill from a reputable dealer. Use it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you or a loved one suffers an injury over the July Fourth holiday period, contact Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC. A personal-injury attorney in Cedar Rapids will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim. Call 319-393-1020 to schedule a free initial consultation.