Celebrating the Fourth of July is a truly unique American event, honoring the ratification of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Friends and family gather to share food and relaxation, often with a light show of exploding fireworks overhead. Whether you meet at home, on the water, or in public venues, it’s important to remember that along with the fun, there can be dangers that affect you and your loved ones for years to come.
The Michigan personal injury lawyers at White Law PLLC wish you a happy Fourth and want to provide some crucial information to help you avoid the following safety risks on Independence Day.
Fireworks
For most Americans, it wouldn’t be the Fourth of July without a spectacular fireworks show. Whether you’re planning on watching a local display at Michigan’s fairs & festivals or setting off bottle rockets at home, it’s important to remember the dangers of mishandling any type of fireworks. Even though most people think sparklers are safe, they burn at 2000o F and account for almost 50% of injuries to children under five, according to the Consumer Products Safety Council (CPSC).
These are some things to avoid this Independence Day:
- Don’t try to make your own fireworks at home
- Don’t buy fireworks that come in brown paper or that don’t have labels since these are meant only for professionals
- Don’t let young kids set off fireworks without adults nearby
- Don’t point or throw fireworks at anyone in a “fireworks battle”
- Don’t try to relight a “dud”
- Don’t discharge fireworks if you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol (MCL §28.457)
- Don’t try to buy fireworks if you’re under 18 (also illegal)
Big fireworks are best left to the professionals, so it’s wisest to look for local displays put on by municipal agencies or festivals. If you really must be the one to light up the sky, be sure to only buy and use fireworks in Michigan that are legal and approved in your area. By law, you can only set off fireworks on your personal property, so stay off the street, school property, church property, and anyone else’s lands without their permission.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
Backyard BBQs
For much of the day and into the evening, many people will celebrate the holiday by firing up the grill and enjoying a big meal at home. The smell of the grill can spark up nostalgia, but it’s vital you keep your mind on the risk of fires and burns. Keep children and pets away from firepits and grills to avoid a trip to the ER.
Always use the right utensils for grilling and keep a fire extinguisher or water bucket nearby in case the flames escape. If you want to take a break from cooking, be sure a responsible adult is watching the fire to ensure no one gets hurt. Finally, avoid drinking heavily while working with fire since alcohol can seriously affect your vision and reflexes.
Boating
For those lucky enough to celebrate around a body of water, even a local pool, there are several risks to swimming, being on the beach, or boating Michigan’s lakes. Have a plan for safeguarding children and those who can’t swim. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends these tips for safety in and around the water:
- Limit alcohol intake, especially when operating a boat (BUI MCL §324.80176).
- Choose at least one strong adult swimmer to supervise children and anyone who isn’t experienced in the water.
- Always have enough life jackets for everyone aboard your boat and ensure they use them.
- Operate your boat carefully when the waters are crowded with other watercraft and swimmers.
- Be aware of dangerous currents, waves, and water conditions in local lakes.
Even if you just gather around the backyard pool, it’s important to recognize the risk of slip-and-fall injuries. Children can also drown in a shallow kiddie pool, so never leave them unattended, even for a few minutes. If you’re injured while boating or around water due to someone else’s negligence, schedule a free consultation with our team right away.
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
Traveling by Car
Even if you’re just planning a quick trip across town to a big party at Aunt Jane’s house, the roads can be dangerous during the Fourth of July. Many revelers will have indulged in cocktails or beer before getting behind the wheel. According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), Independence Day is one of the deadliest holidays for car accidents and deaths.
It’s essential for everyone in the vehicle to always use seat belts (and car seats for young children), no matter how long or short the trip will be. Practice defensive driving techniques and assume that other drivers may be intoxicated, distracted, or sleepy, regardless of the time of day. Most importantly, avoid using alcohol or drugs that impair your ability to drive safely or designate a driver who will abstain.
Drunk drivers often fail to take evasive measures to prevent an accident, making them more likely to speed, ignore road signs, and drive recklessly. These behaviors mean their vehicle will hit yours with much more force, increasing the chance of causing severe injuries or death. Our car accident lawyers will ensure they are held accountable for every penny they cause you in damages, pain, and suffering.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
White Law PLLC Is Here for You Every Day of the Year
If your Independence Day fun was interrupted by an injury or accident, you need experienced advice from a skilled personal injury attorney who will be on your side. Depending on the circumstances, you may be eligible to seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress when someone else is at fault. We investigate every aspect of your case and ensure your lawsuit is filed before the statute of limitations expires.
We can educate you and explain your options so you have the knowledge you need to make the best decision for your case. Our lawyers will guide you through filing insurance claims and negotiating for a fair settlement. To learn whether your Fourth of July injury is worthy of legal action, contact White Law PLLC to arrange a free consultation today.
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