Labor Day marks the end of summer for many, allowing friends and family to enjoy a long weekend together once before switching gears and looking toward the holidays. Unfortunately, this fun weekend is often marred with tragedy. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), an average of 400 people lose their lives in motor vehicle accidents every year during Labor Day weekend. Other common accidents that occur during Labor Day weekend include boating accidents, swimming accidents, and firework accidents.

Tips to Stay Safe this Labor Day Weekend

Everyone can enjoy a fun holiday while staying safe and preventing injuries. We compiled a list of tips that will help you avoid the most common ones.

• Motor vehicle accidents: Many of the injuries people sustain are caused by traffic accidents. Injuries can range from minor to severe, including cuts, bruises, broken bones, whiplash, and traumatic brain injuries. If you plan on hitting the road this Labor Day, there are several steps you can take to avoid an accident. Plan ahead if you are going on a road trip and leave enough time for you to make a few rest stops. If you have had a few drinks, do not drive. You might only feel buzzed, but even driving while buzzed can slow your reflexes, which will increase your chances of an accident. Lastly, make sure you schedule your vehicle for routine service and fill up your tank the night before leaving for your trip.

• Swimming accidents: If you plan on visiting the beach or spending the day by the pool, accidents can happen if you are not careful, especially when it comes to children. Make sure your children are always supervised by a trusted sober adult whenever they are in the water, even if a lifeguard is on duty. On a busy day, it can be difficult for a lifeguard to keep an eye on everyone who is in the water. Make sure to also stay hydrated and apply and reapply sunscreen as needed.

• Firework accidents: If sparklers and fireworks are part of your idea of a perfect Labor Day, exercise caution when using them to prevent injuries. Never point or throw fireworks in another person’s direction, do not allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, and never try to reignite fireworks that did not completely ignite the first time.

• Boating accidents: A boating accident can be just as dangerous as any motor vehicle accident, so be sure to never drink while operating a boat. Other safe boating practices include ensuring everyone on board has a life jacket and maintaining an awareness of your surroundings.

Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Today!

At Clawson & Clawson, LLP, our team of personal injury attorneys has over a century’s worth of combined experience fighting on behalf of the wrongfully injured. If you sustained an injury that was caused by negligence, do not hesitate to turn to us for the exceptional legal help you deserve.

Call our office today at (719) 602-5888 to schedule a free case review. You will not owe us legal fees unless we can win your case.