June is National Safety Month , a crucial time to raise awareness about the leading causes of preventable injury and death in the United States. As personal injury attorneys, we see firsthand the devastating impact these injuries can have on individuals and families. By understanding the most common risks and taking proactive measures, we can all contribute to a safer environment for ourselves and our communities.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contact a local personal injury law firm for a free consultation. Should you decide to work together, your injury lawyer will help you navigate the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve.
National Safety Month and The Leading Causes of Unintentional Injury and Death
Here are the top five causes of preventable injury and death:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of preventable deaths and injuries. In 2022 alone, the NHTSA estimates that 42,795 people lost their lives in traffic crashes in the U.S. In fact, The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that somewhere between 94 and 96 percent of all motor vehicle accidents are caused by human error.
To stay safe on the road it is important to avoid distractions such as texting and driving, follow the speed limits, drive cautiously in poor weather conditions, and NEVER drive while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
- Falls
Falls are a major cause of injury, particularly among older adults. In 2021, 38,742 older adults aged 65 and older died from preventable falls, and nearly 2.9 million were treated in emergency departments for serious injuries such as hip fractures and head trauma.
To prevent falls, it is important to keep walkways free of clutter, remove trip hazards such as loose rugs and electrical cords, install safety features such as grab bars in bathrooms as needed, and exercise regularly to improve balance and strength.
- Poisoning
Poisoning, often from accidental drug overdoses, is a leading cause of preventable injury death. From 1999 to 2016, drug-poisoning death rates more than tripled, from 6.1 per 100,000 to 19.8 per 100,000. The opioid epidemic significantly contributed to this issue.
To prevent drug poisoning, it’s important to store medications safely, use medications as prescribed, and to never share medications. It’s also important to install a carbon monoxide protector in your home.
- Drowning
Drowning is a leading cause of death for children and young adults. According to data shared by the Children’s Safety Network, drowning is the leading cause of unintentional injury deaths for children ages one through four. For children and adolescents ages five through 19, drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional injury deaths. Every year in the U.S., approximately 3,700 people die from unintentional drowning. Even a small amount of water can be dangerous for young children.
To prevent drowning accidents, it is important to always supervise children when they are in or near water and to have a locked fence around a backyard pool. It’s also a good idea to learn CPR in case of an emergency.
- Fires and Burns
Fires and burns cause thousands of injuries and deaths each year. House fires, car accidents, cooking accidents, and electrical malfunctions are common causes of burn injuries.
To reduce fire risks, install smoke alarms, create an escape plan for your family, and keep flammable materials such as curtains away from heat sources.
By prioritizing safety in our daily lives, we can significantly reduce the risk of preventable injuries and deaths. Let’s work together this June and beyond to create a safer environment for everyone.
Seek the help of a personal injury lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! We have been representing residents of Whatcom County, Skagit County, Island County and Snohomish County since 1979. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you!
