At Switalskis, we care about our clients and bring a wealth of experience across a wide range of accident claims. In this blog, we’re focusing on accidents that can happen during the summer holidays. Of course, this is just one area we cover, our support extends far beyond the examples mentioned here.

Know the risks and your rights

The summer holidays are a time for relaxation, socialising with friends, adventure and fun, but there is unfortunately, an increased risk of accidents. This is because many of us participate in outdoor activities and tend to travel more.

The most common types of accidents during this period might be:

1. Road traffic accidents

People tend to take more road trips during the summer months, this means that the roads are busier so more accidents are likely arise.

Common causes:

• Being distracted: Using mobile phones, following a sat-nav and going the wrong way, other drivers and/or passengers, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving.
• Fatigue: Long journeys without rests can lead to tiredness and reduced reaction times.
• Speeding: Increased speed to reach holiday destinations quicker.
• Drunk driving: More social events can lead to a rise in drink driving incidents.
• Driving in unfamiliar areas: Resulting in increased stress.

Legal rights

If you are injured in a road traffic accident that was not your fault, you can make a personal injury claim. A claim could result in a compensation award. Compensation awards typically cover the physical and/or any psychological injury, loss of earnings, treatment costs, damaged items and any other related costs that you have sustained as a result of the accident.

2. Slip, trip, and fall accidents

The festival period tends to fall in the summer months which is a common place for slips, trips and falls. Lots of us may also spend more time at the swimming baths where the floors are wet and injury is likely to occur.

Common causes:

• Wet surfaces: Spilled drinks and wet floors around pools.
• Uneven ground: Cracked pavements, poorly maintained pathways, or uneven terrain.
• Obstructions: Toys, garden equipment, or other objects left in walkways.
• Poor supervision by lifeguards: Allowing activities likely to lead to injury.

 Legal rights

Property owners and local councils have a duty to maintain safe environments.

If the environment has not been maintained and negligence can be proven, you may be able to claim compensation for any injuries sustained and any losses incurred.

3. Sports and recreational injuries

Common causes:

• Contact sports: Football, rugby, and other contact sports can result in sprains, fractures, and concussions.
• Water sports:  Swimming, boating, and other water activities can result in drowning or injuries.
• Cycling: Falls and collisions can cause significant injuries.

Legal rights

Supervised events/event organisers have a responsibility to ensure the safety of the participants engaging in them.

You may be able to make a claim for injuries you have sustained as a result of using faulty equipment or inadequate supervision.

4. Playground, park accidents, farm visits and activity centres

Common causes:

• Faulty equipment:  Broken swings, slides, or climbing frames.
• Poor maintenance: Unmaintained surfaces, mechanical failings or unmaintained structures.
• Lack of supervision: Inadequate adult supervision can lead to accidents.

Legal rights

Local councils and property owners can be held liable for injuries due to negligence.

5. Holiday and travel accidents

Typically, accidents occurring in hotels, holiday parks, or abroad.

Common causes:

• Hotel accidents:  Slips, trips, and falls due to poor maintenance.
• Transport accidents: Injuries occurring during flights, bus, coaches or train journeys.
• Adventure activities: Injuries from activities like hiking, zip-lining, or water sports.

Legal rights

If you have booked a package holiday, and sustained an injury you may be able  claim for accidents under the Package Travel Regulations. If you are injured abroad, you might still be able to claim under UK law, depending on the circumstances.

6. Barbecue and fire-related accidents

Barbecues and bonfires are popular in the summer but can lead to burns and fire-related injuries.

Common causes:

• Improper use of barbecue equipment: Always follow user guide/instructions
• Placement of barbecue equipment: Using near flammable materials.
• Lack of safety measures: Not having fire extinguishers or first aid kits on hand.

Legal rights

If you are injured due to negligence, such as improper warnings of fire hazards, faulty barbecue equipment and/or lack of safety equipment, you may be able to pursue a claim.

Need help or advice?

Our experienced personal injury team is here to help you navigate the complexities of making a claim and ensure you get the justice and compensation that you deserve.

Stay safe and enjoy your summer holidays, but remember, we’re here to support you if you need us. For expert legal advice and assistance, call 0800 138 0458, email help@switalskis.com or fill out the form below.