With freezing temperatures throughout the northern United States, Myrtle Beach is an appealing vacation destination to escape winter. Recreational opportunities on the sea or on land are abundant, from swimming and boating to golfing and sightseeing.
While you may be able to leave behind your everyday cares when you visit, accidents can follow you even on vacation. They can be more distressing to handle, too, when you are out of state.
Be prepared by knowing common types of accidents and what you should do if they happen.
1. Auto collisions
The likeliest thing to happen is a car crash. The area is full of tourists, who may be using a different vehicle than normal, traveling on unfamiliar roads and driving while drowsy or intoxicated. Or perhaps you are a cyclist or pedestrian sharing the road with these motorists. If you get into an accident, receive a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Waiting until you get home can make it harder for you to prove the accident caused your injury.
2. Water accidents
The water can be just as dangerous as it is delightful. Accidents can happen while swimming in a pool or the ocean, boating, walking along the shore or doing a myriad of other related activities. Causes include:
- Poorly maintained swimming areas and watercrafts
- No lifeguard on duty, or insufficient training
- Hazardous debris on the beach
- Missing or defective safety gear, such as life jackets
- Lack of warning signs
As a personal injury claim requires proving negligence, it is important to gather evidence through photos and eyewitnesses the source of the accident.
3. Premises liability
You are likely staying at a hotel or rental property while in Myrtle Beach. The owner of the property must keep things in order, so you do not sustain an injury. Improper maintenance and water cleanup can lead to slips, trips and falls. Poor security measures can result in criminal activity, and no provision of safety equipment such as fire extinguishers can lead to severe injury. You can sue the responsible parties for financial compensation.