July 4th Travel Safety Tips

The American Automobile Association (AAA) estimates that nearly 40 million Americans will be traveling for the holiday.  With higher rates of travel come a larger number of accidents resulting in injuries.  We have compiled useful and lifesaving tips to ensure that our readers have a fun – and safe – time celebrating this July 4th with their friends and loved ones.

Holiday Travel And Injury Data: Hazards And Safety Tips

The National Safety Council (NSC) first named July as the nation’s deadliest month in 2007. July 4^th (in addition to the days directly before and after and holiday) is no exception: higher rates of travel, alcohol consumption, and firework use all directly contribute to the hundreds of fatalities and thousands of injuries that occur during the popular holiday.

Many of the automobile accidents that happen on or around July 4^th are preventable – but not without taking safety precautions, being vigilant, and pledging to be responsible. The NSC recommends that drivers:

• Always wear a seatbelt and require that other passengers do as well;
• Designate a non-drinking driver if you plan to consume alcohol or drugs;
• Refrain from using cell phones while driving. If you need to make or answer a phone call – or send a text – pull over in a safe area and put the vehicle in park;
• If there is a child in the car, ensure that he or she is in the back and using a proper safety or booster seat, and:
• Do not leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle

Fireworks Safety

Following these safe driving safety tips is one good way to limit the chances for a catastrophic or deadly accident, but let’s not forget how dangerous fireworks can be. Every year, thousands of people sustain July 4^th fireworks-related injuries, and some die because of severe injuries.  As beautiful to watch and fun as they can be, fireworks can also be extremely dangerous – especially when people are celebrating, drinking, and children are running around as they are going off.

Because fireworks can be hazardous, the NSC’s official recommendation is that the best – and safest – way to enjoy them is to watch public displays put on by professionals. However, if you plan on using or being around fireworks this 4^th of July, here are some important safety tips that can minimize your chances for sustaining injuries:

• Do not allow children to handle fireworks. Older children should be supervised if using fireworks;
• Keep a bucket of water nearby in case fireworks stay lit, do not go off, or otherwise malfunction;
• Light fireworks in a clear outdoor area away from houses, onlookers, and flammable materials;
• Never point a firework at another individual, and:
• Never place any part of your body over a firework

Please be careful this 4^th of July – but do not forget to have fun celebrating with friends, family, and other loved ones.  Remember: be cautious with fireworks (or better yet, leave the displays to the professionals), never get behind the wheel after drinking, and travel safely.

Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyers at Galfand Berger, LLP Represent Victims of Automobile Accidents

If you have a legal question or concern, please contact the Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at Galfand Berger. With offices located in Philadelphia, Bethlehem, Lancaster, and Reading we serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. To schedule a consultation, call us at 800-222-8792 or complete our online contact form.