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Summer in New Jersey is a season for barbecues, beach trips, and long afternoons outdoors. But while the warmer months bring plenty of sunshine and activity, they also get an increase in injuries—from poolside slips to traffic collisions.
When another person’s carelessness leads to harm, victims may have the right to take legal action. Knowing the risks—and how to respond if something goes wrong—can help you protect yourself and your family.
Most Common Summer Injuries in New Jersey
The longer days and increased activity make summer one of the busiest times for emergency rooms. Below are some of the most common types of injuries we see throughout Sussex County, Essex County, and the surrounding areas:
- Car and Motorcycle Accidents
Roadways see more traffic during the summer, especially around holidays like the Fourth of July. Teen drivers, vacationers unfamiliar with local roads, and impaired drivers all contribute to a spike in crashes. The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is often referred to as the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” for a reason. - Slip and Fall Injuries
Pool decks, public splash pads, and outdoor walkways can become hazardous if they’re not properly maintained. A fall on a slippery surface may cause broken bones, concussions, or even long-term disability, especially in older adults. - Heat-Related Illnesses
Children, seniors, and individuals with chronic health conditions are particularly vulnerable to heat stroke and dehydration. We’ve seen cases where these injuries occurred at day camps, nursing homes, or outdoor events that lacked proper supervision or cooling measures. - Playground and Trampoline Injuries
Poorly maintained equipment or lack of supervision at parks and recreational centers can lead to broken bones, head injuries, or worse. - Boating Accidents
Popular destinations like Lake Hopatcong and the Jersey Shore bring more recreational boaters onto the water. Collisions, capsizing, or passengers falling overboard often result from inexperience, intoxication, or a failure to follow safety rules.
Prevention Tips That Could Save a Summer
Not every injury is avoidable, but taking a few precautions can go a long way. Consider the following tips to reduce your risk:
- Drive defensively: Stay alert, avoid distractions, and expect increased congestion on highways.
- Use caution around pools: Supervise young swimmers, walk—don’t run—on wet surfaces, and ensure pool gates and safety signage are in place.
- Stay hydrated and cool: On especially hot days, take breaks in shaded areas and drink water regularly.
- Check equipment: Whether it’s playground gear or a rental boat, confirm that everything is in good working order before use.
- Wear proper safety gear: Helmets, life jackets, and sun protection are all part of a smart summer plan.
Even when you’re being careful, you can’t control the actions of others. That’s where accountability becomes essential.
When Prevention Fails: Legal Options for Injury Victims
If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you may be entitled to compensation. At Nagel Rice LLP, we help clients throughout New Jersey seek recovery for:
- Medical bills
- Rehabilitation and future care
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of quality of life
From slip-and-fall injuries in Vernon to traffic accidents in Morristown, our attorneys are experienced in holding property owners, drivers, and institutions accountable for the harm they cause. We work with investigators and medical experts to build strong cases that can withstand pressure from insurers and defense lawyers.
Don’t Let an Injury Derail Your Summer
An injury can turn a fun summer outing into a long and stressful ordeal. If you or someone you love was hurt due to negligence, contact Nagel Rice LLP for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, evaluate your claim, and fight for the outcome you deserve.