Staying Safe While Enjoying Summer Activities

Summer is a season synonymous with outdoor fun and adventure. It’s the perfect time to rev up your ATVs and UTVs, zoom around on jet skis, or simply enjoy a day of boating under the clear blue sky. However, as thrilling as these activities are, they also come with risks. At Bye, Goff & Rohde, we want you to have the best summer ever, but not at the expense of your safety. That's why we've put together this guide to help you stay safe while you're out there having fun.

ATV and UTV Safety Tips

ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles) and UTVs (Utility Terrain Vehicles) offer an exciting way to explore the great outdoors. But they can also be dangerous if not used properly. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, 81,800 ATV-related injuries were treated in U.S. emergency rooms in 2018 alone.

To prevent accidents, always wear a helmet, gloves, long pants, and boots whenever you ride. Never carry more passengers than the vehicle is designed to hold, and avoid unpaved roads where the vehicle can easily overturn. Lastly, take a hands-on safety training course to learn how to handle your vehicle safely.

Jet Ski Safety Guidelines

Jet skis are exhilarating but account for a significant percentage of water-related injuries. The U.S. Coast Guard reported that in 2017, personal watercraft, including jet skis, were involved in 18% of reported recreational boating accidents.

Always wear a life jacket and a whistle attached to your wrist or life jacket to stay safe. Maintain a safe distance from other vessels and never operate a jet ski under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Additionally, consider taking a boating safety course to enhance your knowledge and skills.

Boating Safety Precautions

Boating is a fantastic summer activity, but it requires careful attention to safety. In 2018, the U.S. Coast Guard reported 4,145 boating accidents resulting in 633 deaths and 2,511 injuries.

Ensure everyone onboard wears a life jacket and avoids alcohol, which contributes to 19% of boating fatalities. Always check the weather before you set out, and make sure your boat is equipped with safety equipment like fire extinguishers, signals, and first aid kits.

If an Accident Occurs

Safety should never take a backseat when enjoying these thrilling outdoor activities. These tips may seem simple, but they can make a significant difference in preventing accidents and injuries.

At Bye, Goff & Rohde, our mission is not only to provide legal assistance when you need it but also to help prevent the need for it in the first place. Our team has decades of experience handling personal injury cases, and we understand the importance of safety in preventing these incidents.

If you ever need legal assistance following an accident, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help you navigate the legal process and ensure your rights are protected. Stay safe out there this summer, and enjoy all the adventures it has to offer!