Not-So-Happy Holiday: 4th of July Accidents

The 4th of July is a time for food, family and fireworks – a trifecta that reminds Americans of the freedom we enjoy each day. But the festive weekend can also be a dangerous one, with a distinct spike in emergency room visits to prove it.

In fact, more than 45,000 people typically end up in the ER over the holiday weekend, with a painful injury cutting their celebration short. If you’re hurt in an accident in Berkeley County, SC, trust the personal injury attorneys at West Law Firm to help.

Most Common Injuries

It’s no surprise that fireworks are to blame for many injuries, leaving a mark that lasts long after their colors have faded. Statistics show that more than half of the entire year’s fireworks injuries happen between July 1st and July 8th.

But the ooh and aah-inspiring displays aren’t the only cause for concern this 4th of July. In addition to the fireworks-related hand, eye and face injuries, other common injuries result from:

  • Auto / drunk driving accidents
  • Boating accidents
  • Cooking fires
  • Dehydration / heat stroke
  • Food poisoning
  • Pool accidents

Firework Safety

Fireworks displays are best left to the professionals, but if legal fireworks remain on your agenda, keep these tips in mind:

  • Keep children under very close supervision.
  • Never shoot off fireworks under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Never hold lit fireworks in your hands or point them at another person.
  • Use protective eyewear.
  • Only light one firework at a time.
  • Never try to relight a firework and watch for malfunctioning ones.
  • Keep a water bucket close by just in case.

While you may assume that sparklers are a safe alternative for children, they’re actually the leading cause of ER visits around the 4th of July. Because sparklers reach about 1,500 degrees and can cause serious burns if not used properly, the National Council on Firework Safety recommends keeping them out of the hands of kids under 12.

Pet Protection

It may seem tempting to share your star-spangled celebration with your pup, but it’s best to leave pets at home when attending parades, fireworks displays and other Berkeley County, SC events where potentially-frightening loud noises are likely.

If you’re celebrating at home, keep pets inside. Be sure to warn guests if your pet may try to make a run for it, especially if people are regularly coming and going. Also, make sure your pets’ ID tags are up to date with your contact information.

Keep these tips in mind and enjoy a safe, happy 4th of July! And remember, West Law Firm is here to help. Whether you were hurt by a defective firework or injured in an auto or boating accident, our team will fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call 843-761-5626 or click here to schedule your free consultation at our Moncks Corner, SC office.

About West Law Firm, P.A.

Founded by H. Norman West in 1945, West Law Firm has served the Lowcountry for nearly 75 years.  Practice areas include personal injury, car wrecks, criminal defense, DUI defense, family law, wrongful death, land disputes, business litigation, probate and estate planning, and alternative dispute resolution.

West Law Firm, P.A.
207 Carolina Avenue
Moncks Corner SC 29461

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