Memorial Day is a time for both reflection and celebration.  While we remember the ones who have passed on before us, we also take advantage of the nice weather to enjoy spending time with our friends and family.  Memorial Day means road trips, BBQ’s, picnics and swimming pools. Unfortunately, many accidents also occur this time of year.

Car, Motorcycle, and Bicycle Crashes

Car crashes and motorcycle collisions are unfortunately very common on Memorial Day weekend.  This weekend is one of the most dangerous for motorcyclists.  There are lots of people on the road.  Many of those drivers are unfortunately not paying attention, or even worse—texting or drunk.  There will also be more bicyclists and pedestrians on the roads over the long weekend, which leads to more accidents. Hundreds of people are injured or worse over Memorial Day weekend.

In addition to car and motor vehicle accidents, also watch out for the following:

Swimming Pools

With the start of summer, there are lots of parties around the pool this weekend—whether celebrating the opening of the municipal pools or at private residences.  While pools are great fun, they can also be very dangerous.  Common sense goes a long way in terms of water safety. Children should never be unsupervised around the pool.  Use floaties or life jackets for kids and adults who can’t swim or who are not strong swimmers.  If you have toddlers or mobile babies, use a locked gate or locked patio door to make sure they cannot get near the water on their own.

 BBQ Grill Accidents

It might surprise you to know that BBQ grills (charcoal, pellet, and gas grills) cause more than 7,000 fires every year—many of which cause serious injury.  Children in particular are injured around BBQ grills that are improperly left unattended or otherwise negligently used.  To avoid the risk of fire, clean your grill carefully before each use.  Make sure there is not excess grease and food debris that could catch a flame. Also, keep your the grill away from low hanging trees, bushes, covered patios, and keep it a safe distance from your house.  Never grill indoors.  Keep pets and children away from the grill and make sure kids are attended carefully whenever someone is grilling nearby. Never leave the grill attended. Only use an approved starter fluid to the start the fire – never gasoline, cooking oil, butane, or other non-approved fire starters.

Know Your Legal Rights

If you or someone you love is injured over Memorial Day weekend or any other time of the year, it is important to understand your legal rights.  You may be entitled to money to compensate you for your injuries and damages, including medical bills, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, damage to property, and lost wages.

The expert attorneys at Roadrunner Law Firm are available anytime to analyze your potential personal injury case, including assessing your damages and any available sources of money recovery.  There is no charge for an initial consultation, and we do not get paid until we win your case.  Call us today.  (505) 444-4321.  Or visit us on the web at www.roadrunnerlaw.com.