Whether your absolute favorite season is the summer, fall, winter, or spring, many people agree that the summer is one of the best times of the year. During the summer, the days are longer, the weather is warm and the sun is shining virtually all season long. For most of us, the summer means things like vacation, suntans, sleeping in, and visiting family in distant places.

Unfortunately, there is a darker side to the summer and it has much to do with our children. Because children are out of school and roaming the streets and swimming in pools, the summer means “trauma season” to the local hospitals and ERs – something that not too many parents actually think about. Here is a list of some of the most dangerous things for children during the summer:

• Bicycles (bicycle accidents)
• Swimming pools (drowning accidents)
• B.B. guns (can cause all types of injuries)
• Hoverboards (can lead to concussions and broken bones from falls)
• Pool covers (children can get trapped in them)
• Trampolines (can cause various injuries)
• Non-motorized scooters (can lead to head injuries because children are less likely to wear a helmet)

On July 30, 2015, CBS published an article entitled, Summertime can be a dangerous time for children, it said, “The summer is the busiest time for pediatric surgeons. Kids are out of school. It’s hot. Parents can’t always be around.” The article goes on to point out how bicycle accidents, car accidents, and falls can be dangerous and we couldn’t agree more.

Dr. Kimberly Erickson, the director of the UNC children’s trauma program told CBS, “it’s trauma – not cancer – that is the biggest threat to children.”

If you are a parent, make a mental note about the dangers of summertime accidents in regards to children. Please ensure that your kids wear helmets while riding bicycles and scooters, and that your teenagers do not text while driving. Teach your children to be alert for distracted drivers and drivers who are speeding while they are walking or riding bicycles on public roads.

Was your child injured in an accident due to another’s negligence? If so, contact our firm to meet with a New Jersey personal injury for free!