Top Fourth of July Insurance Claims (and How to Avoid Them)

Sunshine, cookouts, family… and insurance claims? The Fourth of July brings many things to mind, but nobody wants to think about accidents or danger risks when they’re trying to celebrate our country’s independence. But planning is the best way to stay safe… and ensure that you won’t have to spend the Fifth of July making calls to your insurance agent.

                Barbecuing: a summer tradition Americans love. But it doesn’t come without risks. According to MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving), 201 people were killed in alcohol-related car accidents over Fourth of July weekend 2020. If you plan to relax with a few beers in the backyard, be sure to have a designated driver or call a rideshare service. In 2020, there was a drunk-driving fatality every 45 minutes – each one a tragedy that could have been prevented.

                And when you’re enjoying your hot dogs and hamburgers, keep an eye on that grill. The National Fire Protection Agency says July is the biggest month for grill fires, and from 2017 to 2020 an average of over 22,000 people per year ended up in emergency rooms with injuries related to outdoor grilling. Major risk factors include improperly cleaned grills (buildup can increase flammability), gas leaks, and grilling too close to a house, tree, or other structure. Always keep your grill clean, only grill in an open space, go easy on the lighter fluid, and never leave a grill unattended when in use.

                It’s not the Fourth without fireworks! Enjoy the colors, but remember – you’re literally playing with fire. According to riskandinsurance.com, underwriters see an estimated 43 million dollars in property costs every year due to firework mishaps. And that’s not to mention the personal injury risks, either. About 8-9,000 people yearly require medical attention for firework-related injuries. Did you know that the tip of a sparkler reaches temperatures up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit? Ouch! The best bet is to leave it to the professionals and attend a local display, but if you can’t resist creating your own patriotic pyrotechnics, be sure to keep a hose or bucket of water handy, and, like with the grill, stay clear of anything that could go up in flames, and keep guests and pets out of the area.

                For those of us lucky enough to own a boat, the Fourth is a great excuse to get out on the water and soak up the sun. So don’t forget to play it safe out there! According to the American Boating Association, the summer holidays (Fourth of July, Memorial Day, and Labor Day) account for more than one-third of all boating accidents. Statistics show that 80% of those who die in boating accidents were not wearing life jackets, so don’t be caught without one. Just like you wouldn’t drive under the influence, don’t drink and boat either. Intoxicated boaters could face up to a year in prison and $100,000 in fines. If you plan to raise anchor this Fourth, watch out for bad weather conditions, stay alert, and be sure to tell someone ashore where you’re going and when you plan to return, so if anything should happen, help can find you sooner.

                This summer, we hope you make plenty of happy memories – that don’t involve insurance claims. A little prevention and care go a long way to keeping you and your loved ones safe this holiday and every holiday. Lafaro Insurance Agency wishes you a safe and happy Fourth of July!