For and the rest of the Northern Hemisphere, June 21, 2017 will be the longest day of the year. According to timeanddate.com, West Palm Beach will see nearly 14 hours of pure daylight and another three hours of twilight between 4:55am and 9:48pm.
For many people, the Summer Solstice will be just another day. Maybe they will enjoy some extra time outside or stay out a little bit later than usual. But, others will unfortunately be injured in accidents – the same types of accidents that happen every day – that can have lasting consequences for months, years, or decades to come.
To help you stay safe on June 21, 2017 (or any other day this Summer), here are four tips to keep in mind:
1. Be Aware that Others May Be Distracted.
People use their cellphones everywhere – on the sidewalk, on the boardwalk, and even in their cars. Those who are engaged with their phones are less likely to notice other pedestrians and vehicles, and this means that they are more likely to cause dangerous collisions. It is not always possible to avoid someone who has their head down and their mind on a text or social media feed, but do your best to give a wide berth to anyone who isn’t paying enough attention to avoid running into you on their own.
2. Be Aware that Others May Be Drunk.
Alcohol impairment can contribute to poor decision-making, and some people will use just anything, including the Solstice, as an excuse to celebrate with a few too many shots or beers. While cell distractions and low-level intoxication have been shown to cause similar levels of impairment, highly intoxicated individuals are at significantly greater risk for causing a life-changing accident. So, know the signs of alcohol impairment, and try to keep yourself out of harm’s way.
3. Do a Quick Inspection.
Whether you will be driving a car, riding a motorcycle or bicycle, or operating a boat on the Summer Solstice, take a moment to do a quick inspection before you set out. Make sure all of your lights are working, your tires have enough tread, your engine is not low on oil, and that you’re fully insured. These checks may not keep distracted and drunk drivers (or boaters) away, but they will help you stay visible, stop when you need to stop, and avoid getting stranded.
4. Know What to Do After an Accident.
Some accidents are simply unavoidable. No matter what you do, in many circumstances, someone else’s poor decision to drive distracted or boat under the influence will leave you helpless to avoid an accident that results in traumatic injuries. If you or a loved one gets hurt in an accident on the longest day (or any other day) of the year, it is important that you seek medical attention immediately and speak with an injury lawyer as soon as possible.
Brian D. Guralnick Injury Lawyers
For more information what to do after an accident in Palm Beach County, Brian D. Guralnick Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. We are here for you 24/7, so call 561-202-6673 now.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is not intended, and must not be taken, as legal advice on any particular set of facts or circumstances. If you need advice on specific legal issues, please consult with a licensed Personal Injury attorney.
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