When throwing a party or inviting friends over, most people are concerned with cleaning their homes, preparing the food, and making sure that there's enough to drink. Although these things are important, it is also important to remember that, as hosts, you are responsible for what your guests ingest at your party. Many hosts believe that, if their guests are 21 or older, they should be able to consume as much alcohol as they want without hosts having to monitor them. This is a common misconception. If a party attendee leaves the party drunk and causes injury or accident to themselves or another person, the hosts are partially responsible for the injuries. This is true not only at a home-based party, but also at such public gatherings as graduation parties, wedding receptions, and other celebrations.
Apps to Reduce Distracted Driving
Did you know that there are apps you can download to help you be a safer driver? DMV.org listed some apps that you can put on your phone to keep you safer and less distracted when driving down our nation's roads. Some of the apps block text messages while you're driving, while others send out notifications when you've left and arrived at your destination safely. Others share your location and reward you for the numbers of safe miles that you've driven! Read more here to figure out which apps may be right for you and your family members.
Banks Are Training Employees To Spot Elder Abuse
Banks across the country are training their employees on red flags in bank account activity that would suggest exploitation of an elderly person's finances. Some of the red flags include a change in the method of bank activity and a new signature on cards and deposit slips. Sometimes, this training is implemented as a part of Elder Abuse Awareness Month. We hope that all banks in our state will follow suit and provide training for its employees to protect against financial elder abuse!
Collisions Increase In The Summer Months
You may not know this, but the warmer weather also brings about a rise in traffic accidents and tickets. An article written by Insurance Hotline reported that almost 27% of tickets and 27% of car accidents occur during July, August, and September. Many people believe this rise in ticketing is due to summer travel and tourism, which is coupled with increased road construction in the summer. It is also likely that people are less cautious when driving in the summer, because the roads are generally clear and dry. No matter the cause, these statistics are reason enough to be extra cautious when you are driving around with your family this spring and summer.
Beware of "Frontover" Accidents!
Be aware of the front end of your car when driving and pulling out of spaces! A local Pittsburgh news article highlighted the growing number of "frontover" accidents, in which a driver doesn't see a person (especially a child) in front of their car and pulls out, hitting the person. These accidents are becoming increasingly common as people are now driving much larger vehicles than the typical sedans of the past. It is notable that, according to some reports, about 80% of these types of accidents involve larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks. The blind zones in front of these types of cars can be up to 8 feet long.
Distracted Driving Is Still A Problem in PA
According to reports via the Allentown Morning Call, Pennsylvania still has a lot of difficulty with distracted driving. According to their article, despite legislation five years ago that banned texting while driving, there has been over a 50% increase in the number of people being pulled over for distracted driving in the last three years. It is a hard position for law enforcement to be in, since drivers are still allowed to use their phones to make calls or to use apps like GPS. Commercial drivers, like truck drivers, can't use their phones at all unless they're placing an emergency call to police.
Be Aware When You Bike!
This information is good for both bicyclists and cars to know. Stay safe out there! Thank you to Cycling Savvy for the infographic.
Spinal Cord Injuries--Statistics and Causes
Spinal cord, brain, and other serious injuries are frightening, life changing, and complicated to live with and treat. A recent press release by the Shriners Hospital for Children offered up a few surprising and eye-opening statistics related to the prevalence and common causes of spinal cord injuries. Their list included the following statistics:
May Is Motorcycle Safety Month
The month of May is designated as Motorcycle Safety Month, which means that it's the time of year when motorcycles tend to increase on our state's roads. It is important for both motorcycle and car drivers to be aware of each other and follow a few basic safety tips to keep everyone alert and safe on the road! Wear your helmet, give other cars and riders plenty of room, and share the road. Motorcycle riders can also take free refresher classes through the PA Motorcycle Safety Program.
