Labor Day weekend is finally here, marking the end of summer and the start of fall throughout the United States. The three-day holiday weekend is the last hurrah before school and other early fall and winter activities.
Although this year looks quite different thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, Labor Day is still a favorite holiday for many Americans. Despite growing COVID-19 concerns right here in Texas and elsewhere in the country, millions are expected to travel this upcoming holiday weekend. Experts warn that Labor Day could come with similar repercussions as Memorial Day and the Fourth of July, both of which saw a spike in cases in the weeks that followed. In fact, Texas state officials reported more than 75,000 COVID-19 cases between May 25 and June 25. The previous month the state saw about 32,000 cases.
But the novel coronavirus isn’t the only worry leading into Labor Day weekend. Historically, the September holiday is one of the most dangerous and injury-prone. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), as many as 400 people may die in car accidents over the Labor Day weekend period. As with most other holidays, this particular weekend is travel-heavy, with people escaping the city’s hustle and bustle for coastal spots or other parts of the country for a final celebration before summer ends.
Personal Injury Attorneys
At Shamieh Law, we have represented victims of car accidents, slip and fall incidents, and many other accidents following a Labor Day accident. If you suffered an injury because of another person’s negligence or misconduct, please do not hesitate to contact our Dallas law firm.
We understand that times are tense and stressful for many at the moment, and the last thing you want to deal with is an accident. Our lawyers have extensive experience and knowledge handling these types of cases and will do everything we can to help you recover compensation for damages. To learn more about your options following a Labor Day accident in Dallas, please contact Shamieh Law today.
Common Causes of Labor Day Accidents
One of the most common types of accidents we see over Labor Day weekend involves driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), 328 DUI-related crashes resulted in eight deaths and 25 serious injuries over Labor Day weekend alone in 2018.
Motorists are three times as likely to be involved in a deadly car accident over Labor Day weekend. The U.S. Department of Transportation states that 45 percent of all fatalities from car accidents involved an intoxicated or drunk driver.
These numbers paint a picture of how dangerous this holiday is. We will cover safety tips for staying safe this weekend, but let’s first discuss some of the most common accidents:
- Car accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Bus accidents
- Alcohol abuse
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Fireworks
- Dangerous cookouts and barbeques
- Swimming accidents
- Cooking fires
- Boating accidents
Common Injuries Following a Labor Day Accident
Accidents happen, usually at the most inopportune times. Here’s a look at the most common injuries resulting from a Labor Day accident:
- Brain injuries from motor vehicle accidents
- Broken bones
- Injuries from over-consumption of alcohol
- Burns
- Lacerations, cuts, or bruises
- Wrongful death
Stay Safe This Labor Day with These Helpful Tips
Here are a handful of tips to help you stay safe this Labor Day weekend:
- Do a pre-maintenance check on your vehicle before heading on any road trip
- Pack an emergency kit
- Never drive while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs
- Plan ahead for the busy holiday weekend
- Always wear a seatbelt
- Get plenty of rest before making long drives
- Charge your cell phone
- Pack for an emergency
- Take breaks while traveling long distances
- Get plenty of sleep
- Never leave children unattended
- Wear face coverings in any public spaces, especially when social distancing isn’t an option
- If you drink, do not drive, and be sure to designate a sober driver
- Avoid driving late at night
- Plan your route ahead of time to account for any unexpectedness
- Avoid distractions; never text and drive
- Leave with plenty of travel time to avoid rushing to your destination
- Be mindful of others around you and take all necessary precautions to stay safe while you enjoy the holiday
With any holiday comes a change in daily routine. As we move into this upcoming Labor Day weekend, it’s imperative you take the necessary steps to protect yourself and those around you.
If you find yourself the victim of an accident that wasn’t your fault, please contact our Dallas personal injury lawyers at Shamieh Law today. We understand that filing a lawsuit is the last thing on your mind, which is why we are here to assist in any way. Our lawyers offer free consultations and are happy to answer your questions today.