Why This Time of Year is Extra Dangerous on Roads and Waterways

It's summertime, which means warmer weather and more opportunities to get out and enjoy the outdoors. However, it also, unfortunately, means an increase in accidents due to intoxicated drivers and boaters. Just this past Memorial Day weekend, 20 people lost their lives on Georgia waterways and roads.

This time of year is especially dangerous for several reasons. Here's what you need to know.

Why is Summer More Dangerous?

A few factors contribute to the increased danger on roads and waterways during the summer months.

First, more people are out and about. With warmer weather comes the desire to be outdoors more often. That means there are simply more people on the roads and in the water. And with more people comes an increased chance for accidents.

Second, people tend to drink more in the summer. Whether beer at a cookout or cocktails by the pool, alcohol consumption increases during summer. And that means more intoxicated drivers and boaters are on the roads and waterways.

In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drunk driving is a factor in nearly one-third of all traffic fatalities in the United States. And according to the U.S. Coast Guard, boating under the influence (BUI) is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents.

How to Keep Your Family Safe This Summer

So what can you do to keep your family safe this summer? Here are a few tips:

Plan Ahead

If you're going to be drinking, ensure you have a designated driver or someone who can take you home safely. The last thing you want to do is get behind the wheel after drinking.

If you're going boating, ensure everyone on board knows the safety rules and regulations. And make sure you have a designated driver or someone who can take you back to shore if necessary.

Wear Life Jackets

This one seems like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how many people don't wear life jackets when they're out on the water. In fact, according to the NHTSA, about 80% of boating accident victims drowned in 2016, and about 85% of those who drowned were not wearing a life jacket.

So whether you're out on a boat, Jet Ski, or even just swimming in a lake or pool, make sure you and your family wear life jackets.

Be Alert for Other Drivers and Boaters

This summer, be extra alert on the roads and waterways. Look out for other drivers and boaters who may be under the influence. And if you see someone driving or boating recklessly, report it to authorities.

Proud Ongoing MADD Sponsor

At Goldstein Hayes & Lina, LLC, we are committed to helping make our roads and waterways safe for everyone. We're a proud ongoing sponsor of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).

MADD is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending drunk driving, helping victims of drunk driving, and supporting those affected by drunk driving.

Georgia Personal Injury Attorneys That Care

At Goldstein Hayes & Lina, LLC, our Georgia personal injury attorneys have represented countless victims of drunk driving accidents. We know the devastating impact that these accidents can have on victims and their families.

That's why we're committed to helping accident victims get the compensation they need to rebuild their lives. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, we can help.

Contact us today for a free consultation. We'll review your case and help you understand your legal options. And we'll do it all at no cost to you. Call (888) 425-6070 or fill out our online form to get started.