Our Blog
Summer in Fort Myers provides plenty of opportunities for picnics, concerts, and other types of outdoor gatherings with family and friends. It also affords you the chance to engage in your favorite sports and recreational activities. In the midst of all of this fun, it is important to make safety a priority. Accidents resulting in serious personal injuries tend to increase from the month of June through August. The following highlights some of the most common dangers, ways to protect yourself, and tips on what to do if an accident does occur this summer.
Reduce Your Car Accident Risks
There are a variety of factors that make car accidents even more common during the summer. To begin with, there are large numbers of teen drivers on the road. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is known as the ‘100 Deadliest Days of Summer’ due to the frequency of crashes and collisions. Teen drivers’ general lack of maturity and inexperience make them a real danger on the road.
In addition to teens, tourists in our area also increase car accident dangers. Many are likely to be unfamiliar with Fort Myers streets and unsure of how to reach different destinations. As a result, they are more likely to be distracted, make unpredictable moves in traffic, and disregard traffic signs and signals. The more out-of-state license plates you see, the more you need to practice your defensive driving skills.
Alongside teens and tourists, local drivers tend to let loose in the summer months. An overall increase in activity and eagerness to enjoy days off makes behaviors such as aggressive driving, distracted driving, drowsy driving, and driving under the influence more likely to happen. To protect yourself, follow these tips:
- Allow plenty of time to reach your destination;
- Give other drivers plenty of room on the road;
- Be prepared for unexpected moves among drivers and unexpected changes in traffic conditions;
- Do not engage with aggressive drivers;
- Wear your seatbelt at all times and avoid cell phones or other distractions.
Sports and Recreational Accidents
Boating, biking, hiking, and other types of recreational activities are all common during the summer months. They also all pose certain risks. Whatever hobbies you choose to engage in, it is important to pay attention, to take safety precautions, and to avoid participating if you are under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications. If you enjoy team or recreational sports, be sure and do warm up exercises first and avoid overexertion.
With the high heat and humidity in Fort Myers, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that heat related illnesses are a major concern. You can protect yourself against serious and potentially life-threatening heat-related illnesses by following these tips:
- Make sure you have plenty of water on hand to stay hydrated;
- Use sunscreen and coverups to avoid sunburns;
- Wear sunglasses or a visor to protect your eyes;
- Try to avoid being out at the hottest times of days
- Look for shady areas where you can take frequent breaks.
Accidents That Occur on Others’ Property
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, many summer events and concerts have been canceled. The City of Fort Myers lists guidelines for individuals and businesses to follow, which include avoiding large gatherings, practicing social distancing, and wearing a mask as needed.
Our area has begun the process of reopening, though, which means you may be venturing out more to stores, restaurants, movie theaters, and other businesses. Be aware of the dangers for certain types of injuries, such as slips, falls, and getting struck by or against objects. Be particularly cautious in crowded areas, where accidents are more likely to happen. Tips that can help protect you include:
- Survey the surroundings when you reach a destination;
- Make note of emergency exits;
- Look for security guards, managers, or others you might go to if you need help;
- Avoid putting yourself anywhere you are boxed in;
- During outdoor events, take cover in case of storms;
- If a fight or other altercation or mishap occurs, make your way calmly to the nearest exit.
What to do When Accidental Injuries Happen
Accidents can happen under a variety of circumstances over the summer months and can leave you suffering serious personal injuries. In the majority of cases, the reckless actions of others are to blame. If an accident or other type of mishap occurs, it is important to follow these steps:
- Notify the police, onsite security, or the property owner immediately so that an accident report can be filed;
- Get the names, driver’s license, and contact information for others involved;
- Make note of exactly when and where the accident occurred and whether there were any witnesses at the scene;
- Get medical attention for your injuries as soon as possible, even if they appear minor;
- Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding treatment, work or activity restrictions, and aftercare.
Not taking the above steps could jeopardize your health and your rights in filing a claim. When you suffer personal injuries due to the reckless actions of others, you are entitled to compensation for your medical costs, lost wages, and other expenses.
Depending on the circumstances, our Fort Myers personal injury attorney can guide you in filing a claim through their insurer. We aggressively negotiate on your behalf to ensure you get the maximum amount you are entitled to in a settlement. We can also guide you in filing a personal injury lawsuit through the Lee County Civil Court. This can entitle you to additional amounts not available through insurers, such as compensation for your pain and suffering.
Reach Out to a Fort Myers Personal Injury Attorney
At the Bernardo Law Firm, we wish you and your family a safe and happy summer. When accidents and injuries do occur, reach out to us for the trusted guidance and aggressive legal representation you need in filing a claim. To request a consultation, contact our Fort Myers personal injury attorney today.