The Quad Cities area is renowned for its diverse and engaging New Year’s festivities. And with the new year just around the corner, many of us look forward to ringing in 2024 with friends and family. Sadly, many accidents happen on New Year’s Eve because people aren’t careful. Here are a few common NYE injuries and safety measures to take at Quad City New Year’s celebrations.
How to Avoid Injuries at Quad Cities New Year’s Celebrations
Being aware of these potential risks and taking preventive measures can significantly contribute to a safer and more enjoyable Quad Cities New Year’s Eve celebration.
Slips, Trips, and Falls: these types of injuries are all too common during the winter. To help prevent slips and falls, you should:
- Watch out for wet, icy, or slippery surfaces, and wear appropriate footwear with traction
- Avoid trip hazards by being alert to uneven surfaces, loose rugs, and exposed cords.
- Be careful on ladders by remembering to keep three points of contact at all times, having a spotter when possible, and position the ladder on a level surface. Never overextend, and inspect the ladder before use.
Driving Under the Influence: New Year’s Eve and Day celebrations can involve alcoholic beverages, cannabis, or CBD products. If you choose to partake, keep it within legal limits and avoid driving or operating a vehicle or other heavy machinery while under the influence. Instead, prearrange for a designated driver, rideshare service, or public transportation to protect yourself and others from injury. Conversely, never get into a vehicle with a driver who is under the influence.
And, if you should see someone driving while intoxicated, pull over and report it to the Illinois State Police by dialing *999 or the Iowa State Patrol by dialing 911 from your mobile phone to help prevent car accidents. Ensure that you give the operator your location, the time, location, direction of travel, and a description of the suspected drunk driver. It would also help to report the car’s make, color, and license plate number.
Related topic: What Are the Risks of Fatigued Driving?
Firework-Related Injuries: firework-related injuries encompass a range of injuries caused by mishandling or accidents involving fireworks, including burns. These injuries can happen to individuals handling fireworks, bystanders, or pets nearby. To minimize the risk of firework-related injuries, it’s crucial to follow safety guidelines, use fireworks responsibly, and adhere to local laws and regulations regarding their use. Additionally, attending professional fireworks displays can reduce personal risk while enjoying the spectacle.
Candle Burns or Cooking Accidents: use caution with candles, stovetops, and other cooking equipment. Keep flammable materials away from open flames to prevent burns or fires. Taking precautions and being mindful of safety measures can significantly reduce the risk of burns, fires, or other mishaps while cooking or using candles.
Choking Incidents: choking incidents are situations where an object obstructs the airway, hindering a person’s ability to breathe. This blockage can lead to severe health complications or even be life-threatening. Be cautious when eating and drinking, particularly with small items or excessive amounts. Also, keep an eye on children to prevent choking accidents.
Electrical Accidents: electrical accidents refer to incidents involving electricity that result in injuries, shocks, or fires. These types of Quad Cities New Year’s celebration accidents can occur due to various factors. To avoid injury, ensure proper handling of electrical decorations and extension cords. Avoid overloading circuits and use appropriate outlets to prevent electrical shocks or fires.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning occurs when individuals inhale high levels of carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas. The incomplete combustion of fuels such as gas, oil, coal, and wood produces carbon monoxide.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can happen in various situations. That is why you must be cautious with indoor heating sources and generators. Do this by ensuring proper ventilation and placement to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
Related topic: Who Is Liable for a Broken HVAC Unit?
Road Accidents and Pedestrian Mishaps: road accidents and pedestrian mishaps refer to incidents involving vehicles, pedestrians, or a combination of both, resulting in injuries or fatalities. Be cautious on the roads, both as a driver and a pedestrian, due to increased traffic and potentially impaired drivers. Ultimately, drivers’ and pedestrians’ education, awareness, and responsible behavior play significant roles in preventing road accidents and pedestrian mishaps.
Get Legal Help After a New Year’s Celebration Injury
Even if you are cautious, you cannot control the actions of others, and there is always a certain level of risk of injury at any Quad Cities New Year’s celebration. If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence this holiday season, do not hesitate to contact our experienced team of personal injury attorneys. Backed by over 60 years of collective experience, Winstein, Kavensky & Cunningham has successfully served Quad Cities injury victims.
You can reach our team by phone at (309) 794-1515 or connect with us online through LiveChat to explore your legal options and begin your free consultation. Remember, our compassionate and caring injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means you don’t pay a thing unless a settlement is recovered on your behalf. We represent clients in Rock Island, Henry, Mercer, Whiteside, and Knox counties in Illinois and Scott, Clinton, Muscatine, Cedar, and Jackson counties in Iowa.
The information on this blog is for general information purposes only. Nothing herein should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.