Summer is Here! So, Just Be Safe!!!
School is out, and aside from dealing with the fact that the kids are home all day, and are already bored, this is your time of year to relax, kick back, and head to your favorite vacation spot. Whether you choose to go the beaches, mountains, area pools or the lakes, it is important to remember that the rest of the drivers on the road with you may not be focused on their driving, and instead are hurrying to their vacation destination. They may also be distracted by their children in the car, who when they are not zoning out on their phones, or other devices, are causing a ruckus by fighting over who gets the phone charger next! The driver of the car next to you, or behind you, may also not be paying attention to the road because they are busy trying to read their work emails, or coordinate with other family members as they descend upon the common family vacation destination.
So, be sure to be aware of your surroundings, because those around you may not be aware of their following distance, speed, failure to maintain their own lane of travel, or just plain inattention. To make matters even more challenging, the summer is when those massive thunderstorms, hailstorms, and downpours make their visits to North Carolina and South Carolina. Take extra caution in rainy weather and keep a safe following distance as slick roads tend to shorten the distance that we think is safe in inclement weather. Get plenty of rest before you start your journey, and that will assist you in keeping eyes on the traffic, and the road conditions, both of which can change literally around the very next curve of the road on those long trips to the beach, or mountains.
The hazards of the road are only one potential danger. Be careful if you choose to celebrate the awesomeness that is America with fireworks, supervise any children participating in the celebration very carefully, and by all means keep them out of any potential to get in harm’s way. Likewise, be aware and careful when firing up a gas grill for a seemingly short distraction could be far longer than you think it was, and can lead to a gas build up that when ignited can have drastic consequences.
The powerful rays of the sun are a potential danger during the summer months so make sure you stay hydrated, have on plenty of sun protection, and are watching the children for signs of heat stroke.
Finally, be aware of any animal hazards while swimming, and don’t forget that we share the oceans, rivers, and lakes of North Carolina and South Carolina with wild creatures such as sharks, alligators, snakes, jellyfish, eels, and snapping turtles. If you are taking a dip in the ocean, or a lake at night, that is also the time when many animals are looking for their dinner, and if you are not aware of what is sharing the water with you, then you may find that you, your child, or a pet is the victim of an animal attack. Remember you are wading into their home territory, and not the other way around.
Tippens & Zurosky is available to serve your auto accident and workers’ compensation needs, and wishes you a safe and happy summer. Tippens & Zurosky has represented people involved in auto accidents, or hurt on the job in North Carolina and South Carolina for over twenty years. Let us answer any of your questions regarding any automobile accident, or work-related injury. Call us toll free at (877) 372-3580, or 704-343-0018 to schedule a consultation so that we may assist you.
