Summer Safety
New Hampshire has long been known as an idyllic summer location, offering the complete gambit of summer activities for vacationers and full time residents alike. Lakes, mountains, and beaches in the Granite State attract droves of people during the warm months, and New Hampshire stands up as one of the best summer getaways in the US. Whether you’re boating, barbequing, or lighting off some July 4th fireworks, New Hampshire is a great place to recreate. All of these recreational activities, however, come with risk of injury.
Boating is a dangerous activity, and causes hundreds of fatalities and thousands of serious injuries in the US every year. In 2013 the US experienced:
4,062 total boating accidents
560 deaths
2,620 injuries
Over $39 million in damages
Every NH resident understands the joy of a fireworks display, and state law allows the sale of fireworks to anyone over the age of 21. Less understood, are the dangers and injuries resulting from fireworks each year. In 2011, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission conducted a study analyzing fireworks and injuries:
On average, 200 people per day visit the emergency room with firework related injuries in the month surrounding July 4th
65% of all firework related injuries occur in this month long period
46% of all injuries were sustained to the hands or fingers
In 2013, New Hampshire boasted over 92,000 registered water vehicles- this is almost twice the national average (per-capita). New Hampshire also has one of the most liberal set of legal guidelines governing the sale of fireworks. Given these conditions, NH residents should not only be especially aware of appropriate safety precautions, but also of the insurance coverage available for these accidents. In the case of an accident, suing your neighbor or friend for medical coverage is not your only option. Homeowners, boaters, and personal insurance may well cover associated damages, and its crucial to understand how and when these insurance policies may be applied.
With any specific questions or concerns, please contact Rice Law Office, PLLC for a free phone consultation at 603-528-5299 or visit our website for helpful articles and information. Have fun, be safe, and seize the summer!
