Summer may pose an additional risk of personal injury
The summer months may post an additional risk for personal injury because of the increased use of public pools, shopping districts and roadways.
Summer vacation is a great time for North Carolina families to take trips and go on adventures around town. With this increased activity level, there may be a higher risk for injury. After all, when more people are out on the roads, the hazards increase. There are a few different summer activities that could lead to injury.
Using public swimming pools
Because of the heat associated with summer, many parents choose to take their children to waterparks and pools. If a public swimming pool is not properly maintained, it could be a hazard for all of the swimmers. For example, if the property managers do not keep the water at the proper pH value, it could lead to chemical burns or damage to swimwear. Other potential safety hazards of public pools include the following:
- Lack of on-duty lifeguards
- Inaccessibility to safety gear
- Slick walking surfaces
- Improperly covered drains
- Broken lounging equipment
The pool can be a great place for family memories to be made, but it is important for everyone to be aware of the potential dangers.
Walking down sidewalks
Many people find themselves strolling along shopping districts and downtown areas during summer evenings. Some sidewalks pose a tripping hazard because the slabs have become uneven or cracked. This uneven surface becomes an even bigger risk during the summer months because of the increased foot traffic, which can exacerbate some of the disrepair. The greater number of pedestrians may make it difficult for those unfamiliar with the area to see tripping hazards or read warning signs. If a business owner does not take proper care of his or her property, it could lead to falls and broken bones.
Taking long trips in the car
Summer is the perfect time for families to load up their vehicle and head out for some sightseeing. Whether the trip is going to take them across the state or country, the extra time in the car could increase exposure to driver distractions or vehicle malfunctions. According to MADD, the days between Memorial Day and Labor Day are some of the deadliest on the road because of the increase in people traveling in addition to the extra incentives to drink, such as big holidays like the Fourth of July.
The number of people traveling in North Carolina tends to increase during the summer because of the extra vacation days and the nicer weather, but these ideal traveling characteristics can make the summer months a safety hazard. If an accident does take place on the highway or at a public place, it may be beneficial to work with an attorney who is familiar with personal injury cases related to premise liability or dram shop law.