What You Should Do If You Were Injured as a Result of These Common 4th of July Accidents

While the Fourth of July holiday is an occasion for celebration, unfortunately, it is also a time of year when many people are injured in accidents. The Independence Day holiday is particularly known for certain kinds of accidents. If you have been injured in one of these accidents, you should familiarize yourself with the steps you can take after such an accident. 

Motor Vehicle Accidents

The Fourth of July sees a massive spike in vehicular traffic as people go out to events in their town or travel for vacation or to see friends and family. However, the increased traffic makes the Fourth of July holiday one of the deadliest times of year on the road. The risks of car accidents over Independence Day are also greater due to people consuming alcohol at parties, barbecues, and events, meaning more drunk drivers on the road.

Fireworks Accidents

Fireworks are another leading cause of accidents over the Fourth of July holiday. Fireworks accidents can result in a wide variety of injuries, including hand and finger injuries when a lit firework is picked up and goes off, face and eye injuries when people are struck in the head by fireworks, and burn injuries. Fireworks accidents typically occur due to people drinking before setting off fireworks, improper handling of fireworks, and approaching fireworks assuming that they have gone out when in fact they are still lit.

Swimming Pool Accidents

Many people head to the pool during the Fourth of July holiday. Unfortunately, swimming pool accidents can lead to all sorts of injuries, including drownings, broken bones, neck, back, and spine injuries, slip and fall injuries, and cuts and bruises. Swimming pool accidents can be avoided by using caution when walking around pool areas, making sure inexperienced swimmers have flotation devices, not diving into shallow areas of pools, and refraining from getting into the pool after consuming alcohol. 

Food Poisoning

Picnics and barbecues unfortunately create the perfect conditions for food poisoning. Many types of foods commonly served on the Fourth of July, such as meats or dishes containing eggs or dairy, must be kept at controlled temperature but are often left out in the heat and sun. Food should be kept in coolers with freezer packs or ice until ready to serve. When grilling meats, make sure that cooked food never touches a surface that has raw food on it. Also, remember to wash all fruits and vegetables. Food should not be left out for more than an hour before being cooked or put back into refrigeration. 

What to Do If You Were Hurt Over the Fourth of July Holiday

If you did suffer an injury or other physical harm over the Fourth of July weekend, you should remember to document your injuries, including taking photos of the scene where your injury occurred. You should also seek medical attention as soon as possible, and follow all treatment instructions from your provider. Finally, you should make time to talk with a personal injury lawyer to discuss the circumstances of your injuries and learn whether you may have a potential claim to compensation.

Contact a Rochelle Park Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Case in New Jersey

Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries t in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at the Epstein Law Firm, P.A. represent clients injured in Jersey City, Union City, Bayonne, Hoboken, and throughout New Jersey. Call (201) 380-7687 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 340 West Passaic St., Rochelle Park, NJ 07762.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.