As the temperatures rise and the spring season sets in, it becomes increasingly difficult to fight the urge to get out of the house and enjoy outdoor activities. While the prospect of taking advantage of nice weather and getting fresh air seems harmless, it is important to be aware of your surroundings to avoid the risks of personal injuries. Although no one can ensure your safety, the personal injury attorneys at Peter Angelos Law are committed to providing legal counsel and fighting for your right to compensation should an unforeseen injury occur. As we prepare to go into these warmer months, it is essential to consider the following safety precautions with your family members.
Driver Awareness
With warmer weather approaching and COVID-19 capacity restrictions easing, people are more likely to be on the road traveling and returning to their regular commuting routines. It is vital to be an attentive driver or cyclist. It has likely been a long time since drivers and pedestrians alike have been a part of high traffic situations, and as a result, general safety instincts and best practices may lag as we return to the fast pace of spring and summer. If you plan to travel this spring or simply take advantage of the nice weather, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and follow all state and local traffic laws. These strategies can help prevent auto accidents and personal injury claims.
Pedestrian Safety
In 2019, over 6,000 pedestrians in the U.S. were killed in automotive accidents. It is important to always be diligent as a pedestrian. With more drivers returning to the road, the chances of accidents and oversight of general safety precautions are increasing. It may seem simple, but remembering general best practices, such as looking both ways before crossing the street, following all traffic signals and road signs, using designated walking and biking lanes, etc., can go a long way in preventing accidents and the injuries that occur as a result of them. Additionally, if you are running or walking during darker hours, it is advisable to wear reflective gear in order to be more visible to oncoming traffic.
Dog Bites
Warmer weather also leads to an increased amount of injuries caused by dog bites. Pet owners enjoy walking their dogs in the warmer weather as a way to keep their dogs active and get fresh air. While it may be tempting to approach a seemingly friendly dog, you never know the reaction a particular pet may have with you. A negative interaction with someone else’s pet could easily lead to a bite and an injury as a result. Dog bite injuries can range from minor lacerations to much more severe injuries and, in rare cases, even fatal injuries. Make sure you always ask the owner to pet the dog. As a dog owner, be honest to people approaching you and your dog and make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date.
If you or a loved one are the victim of a personal injury caused by another, we want to ensure that you receive the compensation and the support you deserve. The Baltimore-area personal injury attorneys at Peter Angelos Law believe that if you are a victim of a personal injury that causes pain and suffering, you have the right to take legal action. To discuss your legal rights’ next steps, we encourage you to contact our attorneys at 410.649.2000 or fill out a form here.