Embrace Safety This Summer! Insights from Central Florida Lawyers on Summer Safety

Summer is a season that fills our hearts with joy. Schools break up, days stretch longer, and both Central Florida and Highlands Counties pulsate with life as tourists and locals flock to our beaches, lakes, theme parks, and bask in the abundant sunshine. But amidst the fun, summer brings its own set of risks, and as lawyers at Lopez & Humphries, P.A., we’ve observed patterns in accidents and injuries that tend to occur during this season. Many of these unfortunate incidents can be prevented, and we’re committed to imparting our knowledge to help safeguard families and save lives this summer. We encourage you to share this information with your loved ones too.

Is Summer the Riskiest Season in Florida?

We can’t assert that summer is definitively the most dangerous season, but we can provide you with insights into the common dangers of summer in Central Florida. Most notably, injuries and fatalities occur in relation to:

• Boating accidents
• Alcohol consumption
• Motorcycle collisions

These activities are part and parcel of the summer experience, so the associated risks might not come as a surprise. However, it’s startling to see how often injuries and fatalities result from reckless or negligent actions. Below, we shed light on the types of accidents we most often encounter.

Boating Accidents

With over a million boats registered in Florida, our local marinas are bustling, and private docks are nearly as commonplace as driveways in Central Florida and Highlands Counties. Apart from cruising, boating often ties in with numerous water activities like water skiing, wakeboarding, swimming, jet skiing, and paddleboarding. While these pursuits make for a great weekend on the water, they can have tragic outcomes if not undertaken safely. If you’re planning to spend time on a boat this summer, remember:

• Everyone should wear a life jacket at all times
• Never consume alcohol if you are operating a boat or other watercraft
• Adhere to posted speed limits and water rules
• Check the weather in advance
• Follow proper anchoring procedures
• Alcohol Use

We understand: a cold drink on a scorching day can be incredibly refreshing. But excessive alcohol impairs judgment, focus, and reaction times, leading to accidents. Alcohol is a significant factor in boating fatalities or accidents – the U.S. Coastguard reports that drinking while boating accounted for 16% of all fatalities in Florida in 2022. So, whether you’re driving a car, watercraft, or motorcycle, it’s best to steer clear of alcohol to protect yourself and others. Even if you’re just lounging by the pool or barbecuing, be mindful of your alcohol intake. A momentary “buzz” is never worth the potential loss of life.

Motorcycle Accidents

Florida’s picturesque landscapes and sunny weather make it a haven for bikers but it is also a common danger of summer due to the uptick in traffic while the kids are out of school. Make sure you always drive cautiously, don’t drink and ride, and ALWAYS wear a certified helmet to protect yourself while you ride. Even if you’re not a motorcyclist, drive responsibly and be mindful of bikers on the road. By slowing down, you significantly reduce the risk of an accident.

With these precautions, you can ensure a safer summer for you and your family. We at Lopez & Humphries, P.A., strive for a summer filled with joyful memories and fewer accidents. As you plan your summer activities, remember these safety tips.

If you or a loved one suffer an injury this summer, we’re here to help. We’ll fight for the compensation and justice you deserve, aiding you on your journey to recovery. Remember, we offer free consultations for all clients.

Here’s to a fun (and safe) summer for everyone!