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Tips to Help You Avoid Injury This Summer

two women driving in the sun with their hands up

Summertime is often full of activity for many people. The weather is warm, kids are out of school, and the opportunities for entertainment and adventure are endless. While many people look forward to this time of year, it’s important to also understand the inherent risks of going out and doing more in the summer. Our team at Scott H. Palmer, P.C. wants to ensure that you and your loved ones are as safe as possible this season, so we have compiled this list of information to help you avoid spending your summer recovering from a preventable injury.

Even being as safe as possible, you can still be involved in an accident. If you are injured this summer, contact Scott H. Palmer, P.C. to discuss your legal options for a personal injury claim.

Tips for Drivers

Whether you will be traveling short or long distances this summer, drivers should be aware of the numerous risks on the road. Many threats are prevalent all year round, but some increase over the summer.

First, be prepared for the sun. If you’ve been in a car driving toward the sunset, you know how glaring sun can affect your ability to see the road, potentially causing you to crash. The sun shines for longer in the summer, so you should know how this could affect your vision. Always keep sunglasses in your car so you have the option to use them when needed.

Second, know that there will likely be more drunk drivers out on the roads. With summer holidays and the general celebrations over the next few months, drunk driving tends to increase. If you see a driver maneuvering sporadically, keep a safe distance. You may also choose to avoid driving at times when drunk driving accidents happen more frequently. For example, nearly 90% of accidents occur between 9pm and 3am.

Third, make sure your car is properly maintained.
Before a long trip, check your:

  • Lights
  • Battery
  • Wiper and wiper fluid
  • Cooling system
  • Fluid level
  • Tires

The failure of these parts could result in a crash or your car breaking down, both of which can endanger you and your passenger.

Tips for Pedestrians

If you’re traveling by foot this summer, there is a lot to keep in mind. People in cars have the protection of airbags, seatbelts, and other safety measures. Pedestrians are vulnerable to all risks. However, there are things you can do to decrease your chances of being involved in an accident.

First, stay visible. You can do this in a few different ways. It’s important to always cross in crosswalks, where drivers are expecting to see pedestrians. Additionally, crosswalks are often timed with lights so that you can walk safely while most cars are at a complete stop. If you cross at any unmarked point on the road, oncoming traffic may not see you in time to stop. You should also make sure you are still visible to cars if you are out at night. Consider wearing bright clothing, a reflective light, or anything that helps notify traffic that you’re there.

Second, know that heatstroke is a real risk. If you begin to feel lightheaded, nauseous, or other symptoms of heatstroke, stop what you’re doing and rest. Find a shady area, drink water, and keep your legs lifted above your head to promote blood flow.

Note: Heatstroke is also a risk for animals and people left in hot vehicles. Even a short amount of time can be extremely harmful.

Tips for Motorcyclists

It’s the perfect season for motorcycle riding! Whether you’ve never been on a bike or you’re a seasoned rider, you likely know that motorcyclists face many dangers while on the roads.

First, keep a safe distance from other vehicles. Many motorcycle accidents occur due to car drivers not seeing the motorcyclist and hitting them. To be safe, stay as far away from other vehicles as possible. If you cannot spread out, then do what you can to make yourself visible. Remember that cars have blind spots, typically on the sides and toward the back of the vehicle – avoid riding in those areas for too long.

Second, wear protective gear. Safety gear can help to protect you in case of an accident and can significantly decrease the severity of injuries.

You should invest in:

  • A helmet
  • Thick jacket
  • Gloves
  • Eyewear
  • Motorcycle boots
  • Motorcycle pants

This protection could potentially save your life.

If You Are Injured This Summer in Dallas

Some accidents you cannot prevent. When others behave dangerously and you are hurt, you deserve justice. If you pursue a personal injury claim, you can seek compensation for the costs associated with your physical injury, as well as your mental suffering. As long as you are less than 50% at fault for the accident, you may seek compensation.

Scott H. Palmer, P.C. is here for you

After a personal injury accident, our attorneys can help you move forward with a personal injury lawsuit.

We have successfully received settlements for individuals injured after:

Learn more about how we can help you too– call us at (214) 891-3382 today.