Beat The Heat: Avoiding Summer Injuries In Arkansas
Buckle up folks, data scientists are predicting that between 2026 and 2027 we will see record-breaking heat across the globe. Now the Southern states are no strangers to the harsh summer sun and hot temperatures, but rising temperatures naturally increase one’s risk of injury.
Heat stroke and severe dehydration are two obvious injuries that can occur in the summer, but with a high volume of people traveling and swimming, accidents are more likely to occur. Whether you’re at home, on the road, at the pool, or on vacation, you are vulnerable this summer.
We can’t change the weather outside, but Arkansas residents who remain aware of their environment and the possibility for injury will have a safe, albeit hot, summer season.
Common Summer Accidents & Injuries Seen In Court
During the dog days of summer, everyone feels extra tired and hot. The problem starts when normal fatigue from the heat turns into lethargy. As the humidity levels increase, lethargy can cause decreased mental awareness and consciousness, significantly impacting decision making skills.
In the summertime, this means more personal injury claims and premise liability lawsuits like:
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Boating accidents in a body of water
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Improper pool supervision and maintenance (diving accidents, slip and fall injuries, poor management of pool chemicals, lack of adults minding swimming children)
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Fire-related injuries (fireworks, grilling, bonfires, etc.)
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Employees who don’t have acceptable working conditions, leading to heat-related injuries
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Vacation accidents involving amusement parks, cruises, flights, and famous destinations
There’s too much that could go wrong this season with higher-than-usual temperatures across the world. Make a safety plan to maintain order (and hydration) at your home and workplace this summer while the heat wages on. The more prepared you are, the better chance you have at beating the heat.
Mixing Alcohol With Summer Weather
The summer season is synonymous with partying for many people. It’s the perfect time for family reunions, group vacations, and celebrations, and the majority of the time, someone will bring booze.
In fact, when researchers analyzed 7 years of urine data from a sample population, they found drinking tendencies were higher in warm weather, specifically summertime. Conversely, winter weather led to fewer instances of alcohol use.
That’s what makes summer injuries even more dangerous — the likelihood that the injured or responsible party was intoxicated is higher than any other season.
A Homeowner’s Responsibility
If you’re planning on throwing a big backyard bash this summer, you might want to learn about Arkansas’ premise liability laws before you send out the invites. If your property has any unique features, like a broken step or an old trampoline, you could be on the hook for a guest’s medical bills if they sue you for negligence.
So, homeowners with a pool, this means you. If an accident happens on your property, in your pool, and it was caused by negligence, your guest could sue you for damages. The best way for Arkansas residents to protect themselves is by installing a self-closing and latching fence around their pool.
For more information, “Exploring Premise Liability Laws” discusses how Arkansas handles injury lawsuits against homeowners and businesses.
What To Do When Faced With A Negligence Lawsuit
Injured by someone else's actions? Received a notice that you are being sued? Contact the personal injury lawyers at Hickey & Hull Law Offices. Every case is different, but our ultimate goal is making things better for our clients’ futures.
Ready for a brighter tomorrow? Get started today by scheduling a consultation with our online agent. With five offices across the state of Arkansas, residents can find their nearest location to meet the Hickey & Hull legal team.