Staying Safe on the Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is just around the corner. While the current COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic may change how you celebrate in some ways, it is likely that barbecues, fireworks, and drinking will still be a part of the holiday.

Because of the celebrations on the Fourth of July, it is always a fun holiday. However, it is important to remember that it is also possible to get hurt on this holiday. To stay safe and avoid personal injuries this Fourth of July, consider taking the following precautions:

• Be careful as you barbecue: Although it may not seem unsafe, a barbecue can actually cause serious injuries. If the barbecue is defective and a fire or explosion occurs, it can result in painful burn injuries. If this type of accident does occur, you may be entitled compensation by bringing a products liability claim against the company that manufactured or sold the barbeque. So, make sure to use the grill correctly, take caution when using propane, and watch the temperature and flames.
• Watch out for fireworks: Fireworks are definitely one of the best parts of the Fourth of July. Still, setting off fireworks means using fire and dealing with a small explosive. Fireworks can cause serious injuries that include burns, hearing loss (if too close to the explosion), and cuts, and there have been deaths caused by firework shrapnel or fires caused by fireworks. It is possible to still have fun with fireworks, but it is important to do so safely by setting them off in a clear area and by warning others. If you are injured by a firework negligently set off by another person, you may have a valid personal injury claim.
• Drive Carefully: One of the most dangerous parts of the Fourth of July is the increase in drunk driving that occurs over the holiday. Because celebrations often involve alcohol, there is an increase of intoxicated drivers on the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “during the 2017 holiday, 237 people were killed in drunk-driving crashes, accounting for 39% of the traffic deaths during that holiday period.” These accidents are entirely avoidable if you plan ahead–don’t drink and drive, and if you do drink, make arrangements to get home safely. If you are injured in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, you have a right to bring a personal injury claim against the driver responsible. If you have lost a loved one due to a drunk driving accident, a skilled Los Angeles wrongful death attorney can help you bring a wrongful death claim against the driver responsible.

Though celebrations may look a little different this year, we certainly hope everyone can stay safe and still have an enjoyable Fourth of July. If you or someone you care about is injured in a Fourth of July accident, or any other accident, reach out to the experienced personal injury and wrongful death attorneys at Walch Law.