Spring Break Injuries: 3 Things You Should Know
Injuries can happen, and ruin, any vacation. But there something about Spring Break that seems to increase the injury danger.
If you're injured while on Spring Break, you're probably far from home and could use some tips on handling your case. Here are a few that you may want to keep in mind:
1. Sports Venues Are Special.
Whether you're headed to spring training, March Madness, or any of the arenas hosting NHL and NBA games in between, you should be aware that the stands aren't always a sanctuary. And if you're injured at a sporting event, some different rules may apply.
In some instances, like the "baseball rule," courts have found that fans at a game have assumed the risk of injury just by attending. In addition, some tickets may include a waiver of liability for injuries that occur during the game or event. A waiver or assumption of risk could diminish or even nullify an injury claim you have.
2. Wasted on Wheels.
For many, Spring Break isn't Spring Break without some drinking, and that can unfortunately lead to some drinking and driving. If you're a passenger injured in a car crash, you may have options when suing for damages.
If the other driver was drunk, he or she will likely be liable for your injuries. (This liability could extend to parents if the drunken driver was underage.) And if you were drinking and driving, you'll probably want to contact a DUI attorney.
3. In the House.
Just staying at home doesn't necessarily mean you're safe. House parties can turn dangerous, whether by fault of the construction or by fault of the bartenders.
So called social host liability generally means that party hosts are liable for any alcohol-related injuries that occur, especially if the injuries are due to serving alcohol to minors. (Parents may also be subject to criminal charges for giving minors access to alcohol.)
And if you are injured because of some property hazard, you may have a premises liability claim against the property owner.
We at FindLaw wish everyone a happy and safe Spring Break. But if you are injured over your vacation, you may want to meet with an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss you options.
Related Resources:
- Have an injury claim? Get your claim reviewed for free. (Consumer Injury)
- 'Family Car' Doctrine: Liability for a Kid's Wreck (FindLaw's Injured)
- Tattoo (and Tattoo Removal) Fails: Can You Sue? (FindLaw's Injured)
- Spring Break Stabbing Leads to Coca-Cola Suit (FindLaw's Injured)
