The Wilmington area is a popular beach destination for people trying to escape the North Carolina summer heat, drawing thousands of visitors annually. If you are planning to travel to Wilmington this summer, or anytime during the year; it is essential to do what you can to keep your family safe. A serious accident can quickly ruin your vacation.
Is Wilmington NC safe?
According to travel guides, Wilmington is generally a safe place to visit. Crime in the city is decreasing. The biggest dangers to potential visitors are natural disasters like hurricanes, not criminal acts. That said, there is an increased risk of drowning or other water-based accidents if you visit the nearby beaches. Traffic accidents and slip and fall accidents are other significant concerns.
Common Accidents While Vacationing in Wilmington, NC
Accidental injuries can happen anywhere. Some of the most common accidents in Wilmington are:
- Premises liability accidents – Cities with large tourism industries typically have high rates of premises liability accidents. For example, visitors might slip and fall at a poorly maintained rental property or be assaulted at restaurants and bars or in poorly lit parking lots. Property owners and businesses can often be liable for accidents on their property.
- Car accidents – The intense crowds in the peak summer season can make for busy streets and an increased number of car accidents. The influx of traffic also means pedestrians are more likely to be injured. In addition, visitors who get around by rideshare services are at risk of traffic collisions.
- Water accidents – Dangerous currents at Wilmington’s beaches can cause drowning accidents. Visitors might also be injured while boating, swimming in pools, or participating in other water-based activities.
Steps to Stay Safe During Your Vacation
Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind during your Wilmington vacation:
- Be careful around water – Do not drink alcohol while boating or engaging in other water-based activities. Watch young children carefully while they are in the water, and be aware of your own limits while swimming. If you are out on the water, use personal flotation devices.
- Travel light to avoid robbery – Avoid bulky or unwieldy backpacks and purses, as they can make it easier for pickpockets to target you. Keep your valuable items in a safe location. Only bring the things you are sure you will need to reduce your chances of having something important stolen.
- Be a prepared motorist – Make sure your car is in good working order before embarking on a long road trip. Pack an emergency kit and plan your route ahead of time. It may also be a good idea to let someone know when you expect to arrive at your destination.
- Use the buddy system when touring the area – Visitors, especially young children, should never travel alone through a strange city. If your group is splitting up, make sure everyone has a partner with them.
- Keep an eye on your kids – Young children can be easily distracted or wander off in a crowd, leading to an accident, kidnapping, or worse. Make sure you know where your children are, and never leave them alone.
Contact Our Experienced Wilmington Personal Injury Lawyers Today
If you’re injured in an accident this summer in Wilmington and it was someone else’s fault, contact the experienced North Carolina personal injury attorneys at Poisson, Poisson & Bower, PLLC for a free consultation today.
