How to Stay Safe This Summer: Legal Tips to Avoid Accidents on the Water, With Dogs, and at Home
As summer reaches its peak in Michigan, more people are outside boating, biking, swimming, and enjoying backyard activities. But with warmer weather comes an increase in injuries and accidents. At Giroux Pappas Trial Attorneys, we want you to stay safe—and know your rights if something goes wrong.
Here are some key summer safety tips from our team of experienced injury attorneys, including our boat accident lawyers, dog bite lawyers, and premises liability lawyers.
Water-Related Injuries: Boating and Swimming Safety
Boating Accidents in Michigan
In 2024, Michigan saw 120 boating accidents—27 of them fatal. Most deaths were due to drowning, and 87% of those victims weren’t wearing life jackets.
To stay safe while boating:
- Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket
- Carry required safety equipment (fire extinguisher, distress signals, whistle, etc.)
- Never operate a boat under the influence
- Follow posted speed limits and navigate carefully
If you or someone you love is injured on the water, contact a Michigan boat accident lawyer to understand your legal options.
Pool Accidents and Liability
If you have a pool on your property, Michigan law requires you to take precautions—such as installing a fence—to prevent unauthorized or unsupervised access.
Safety tips for pool owners:
- Supervise children at all times
- Remove toys and tripping hazards
- Prohibit running near the pool
- Ensure gates and covers are properly installed
Accidents near pools may result in liability for the homeowner. If a guest slips and falls or suffers an injury, they may be able to file a premises liability claim. Speak with a premises liability lawyer to learn more.
Road, Pedestrian, and Bicycle Safety
Car Accidents and Construction Zones
Summer brings road trips—and construction. That combo can lead to crashes. Always drive alert, especially in work zones.
Tips to avoid summer car accidents:
- Follow speed limits and posted signage
- Keep distractions to a minimum
- Use extra caution near construction crews
Bicyclist & Pedestrian Risks
Drivers must share the road responsibly. And bicyclists and pedestrians must also follow traffic laws.
For drivers:
- Give bikes at least 3 feet of space
- Watch for pedestrians at crosswalks
- Stay off your phone
For bikers:
- Use designated bike lanes
- Ride with traffic
- Wear a helmet
For pedestrians:
- Cross at marked crosswalks
- Stay visible at night
- Avoid distractions while walking near traffic
If you’re injured in a pedestrian or bicycle accident, our attorneys can evaluate whether negligence was involved and pursue compensation.
Dog Bites: Know the Law in Michigan
Dog owners are strictly liable under Michigan law if their pet bites someone—even if the dog has never shown aggression before.
To prevent dog bite injuries:
- Keep your dog leashed in public
- Avoid situations that trigger your pet
- Use fences or barriers at home
If you or your child has been bitten, speak with a dog bite lawyer. These injuries often result in scarring, emotional trauma, or infection—and compensation may be available through the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance.
Backyard Safety and Liability Concerns
Trampoline Safety
Trampolines may be fun, but they’re also a common source of injury.
Tips for safe trampoline use:
- Ensure the equipment is level and secure
- Supervise children at all times
- Allow one jumper at a time
- No flips or dangerous tricks
Premises Liability for Backyard Hazards
If you’re hosting guests this summer, walk your yard before they arrive. Fix or clearly warn of hazards like:
- Loose deck stairs
- Unburied wires
- Slippery walkways
If someone is injured on your property due to a preventable danger, you may be held liable. Talk to a premises liability lawyer if you’ve been injured while visiting someone else’s property.
Injured This Summer? We Can Help.
If you or a loved one suffers an injury this summer—whether on a boat, by a dog bite, or due to unsafe property conditions—you have legal rights.
At Giroux Pappas Trial Attorneys, our experienced legal team is here to help. We handle complex personal injury cases involving boating accidents, dog bites, pool injuries, slip and falls, and more.
📞 Call us today for a free consultation. We fight for justice. We fight for you.
