What Are the Most Common Summertime Accidents?

The long, hot summer is here in Georgia. The days are longer, and the sun is brighter. Some of us like to stay inside with comfortable air conditioning, but many of us like to get out and enjoy the weather. However, summertime puts us at risk for specific types of accidents, and we want your summer to be relaxing and accident-free.

Just as some accidents more commonly occur in the winter  — like slips and falls on ice, car crashes related to darker days, etc. — other incidents that lead to serious personal injuries occur more often in the summer. Here’s a quick overview of the most common summertime accidents:

1. Collisions on bicycles. Cycling is an excellent way to commute to work, or enjoy local parks and scenery on the weekends. However, many motorists are careless when it comes to cyclists. When you ride a bike, always make sure you have proper safety equipment, like a helmet and reflectors, and remain aware of traffic.
2. Pool and water accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the fifth leading cause of unintentional death for people of all ages. Sadly, one in five people who die from drowning are age 14 and younger. Even a pool accident that doesn’t result in a fatality can cause severe injuries like spinal injury, brain injury, broken bones and more. Pool owners have a responsibility to keep their pools safe and properly maintained.
3. Sports injuries. Warm-weather sports like soccer, baseball and softball are popular with both children and adults, but they can also pose a risk for head injuries. Trauma to the head, whether due to an acute injury or consecutive traumas, can cause concussions and possible traumatic brain injury. Always see a medical professional if you experience a blow to the head while playing sports.
4. Car accidents. Summer weather is an excellent excuse for a road trip, which means more cars on the road. Also, with more summer barbecues and parties, there may be more impaired drivers, distracted drivers or drowsy drivers on the road—putting you and your family in danger.
5. Motorcycle accidents. Motorcycle accidents tend to be quite serious. Due to their smaller size and lack of protection from other vehicles and obstacles on the road, motorcycles can result in more severe injuries, in the event of a crash. Many motorists don’t know to drive around motorcycles, or are simply careless, so be aware of traffic when you’re out on the road.

The personal injury lawyers at Harris Lowry Manton LLP hope you enjoy your summer. However, if you are injured in an accident with another vehicle, we will work with you to secure compensation for your injuries and damages. Call us today at 404-961-7650 at our Atlanta office, or in Savannah at 912-651-9967, or fill out our contact form.