Summer is here and for many families that means more time spent outdoors, taking vacations and exploring different avenues of warm weather entertainment. While summer is synonymous with fun, it is also the time of year that accidents are on the rise.
In fact, according to the National Safety Council (NSC), the number of preventable deaths and injuries spike during the summer months, particularly July and August.
According to statistics compiled by the NSC, 117,041 people died between 2011 and 2015 during the months of July and August from the following preventable accidents:
- Chokings
- Drownings
- Falls
- Fires
- Motor vehicle crashes
- Poisonings
Can you prevent these accidents from happening?
There are things you can to do help prevent some of these accidents. For example, store your medications securely out of reach of children at home or while on vacation. While driving, do not use your cell phone or consume alcohol. Help prevent falls at home with nonslip rugs and bathtub mats. Also, make sure your family has an escape plan in the event of a fire.
Each of these precautions can help you protect your family to some extent. However, you can’t always have control of every situation. Motor vehicle crashes, falls, fires and other accidents can also happen due to someone else’s negligence or misconduct.
What should you do in the event of a wrongful death?
If you have lost a loved one due to a preventable situation, you have the right to file a wrongful death claim against the responsible party. Wrongful death claimants may be entitled to compensation for things such as funeral expenses, lost wages and even loss of companionship.
If someone you love is the victim of a wrongful or accidental death, call Yonke Law today at (816) 221-6400 and ask about your legal rights. Depending on the situation, a wrongful death claim can be filed against an individual, company or government entity. We’re here to help in these most unfortunate set of circumstances. It matters to us what happens to you.