As we close out summer this Labor Day weekend, the attorneys at Cory Watson would like to remind you of a few safety tips to help ensure that you, your family and friends get the most out of the holiday.
Safety on the road
With gas prices cheap, some 35 million Americans are expected to hit the road this weekend. If you are traveling on the nation’s roadways, you can expect some delays.
It is important to remember to be patient and obey traffic laws: you’ll get to wherever you’re going on time. Exercise more caution than you usually do: additional drivers on the road tend to increase the risk of an accident, even for otherwise safe drivers.
During last year’s Labor Day weekend, Alabama State Troopers investigated five fatal crashes – two of those who died were riding bicycles. Of the three other fatalities, only one of those killed was wearing a seat belt. Unfortunately, it deserves repeating: always wear your seat belt while in the car, whether as a driver or a passenger.
For a free legal consultation, call 877-562-0000
Safety on the water
Whether you’re out on the lake, down at the beach, or just chilling by the pool, take safety precautions and observe boating laws and local notices, like the colored flags for wave conditions at the beach.
Be sure to be attentive of children and/or inexperienced swimmers, making sure they are wearing some sort of flotation device. If you are on a boating lake, be sure to keep track of your kids and let them know which areas are for boats and which are for swimming.
All boaters should wear life jackets while out on the water, and also watch for swimmers, other boats, and debris.
Finally, take notice of the weather, especially if you hear thunder or see lightning – in which case you should get out of the water until it is no longer a threat.
Drinking Safety
The combination of crowds, travel, and water with alcohol increases the risk of something bad happening. You don’t have to be a teetotaler, just understand the risks and don’t put yourself in a vulnerable situation.
As far as driving or boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs: just don’t do it.
State troopers and marine police will be on increased patrol this weekend, trying to catch drunk drivers and boaters. Far worse than going to jail and getting a DUI on your permanent record this Labor Day is hurting or killing yourself or someone else because your judgment was impaired.
Even if you aren’t a drinker, be aware that other people are and that some of these people may make bad decisions to take to the road or water.
All of us at Cory Watson Attorneys would like to wish you and yours a safe and fun Labor Day!
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