Festival season is in full swing in Ohio and every weekend brings another Art Fest, community event, parade or music festival. When so many people gather in one place, especially when you start mixing alcohol and distracted drivers, huge parking lots and even bigger crowds, you start to increase your risk of accidents. In my 25+ years as the CEO and Founder of Oliver Law Office, I’ve learned some tips to help you stay safe no matter what you choose to do on the weekend, from Sonic Temple to The Memorial and everything in between.
Know Before You Go
It sounds so basic, but look up the event before you go. A quick check of the website can provide a ton of safety info such as:
- Entrances and exits, including any emergency exits
- Ride share pick-up and drop off
- First Aid tents
- Water tents and refill stations
- Restrooms
- Information booths
- Security
While we’re looking things up, look up the weather
- Dress appropriately for the weather. You’re not too cool to wear a jacket.
- You know that person at every event that has a crazy sunburn because they didn’t put on sunscreen? Don’t be that person.
- If it’s hot, drink water
- If you’re drinking a lot of alcohol, drink some water and eat something
- Wear comfortable shoes
If you’re drinking, don’t drive
- I feel like we say this in every blog post. Just don’t do it.
- Designate a driver, take a rideshare or hop on COTA
- Don’t get in the car with someone else who has been drinking, either
- If you don’t feel well, don’t go in a porta-potty. You don’t want to lock yourself in a porta-potty and then pass out. Stay with a trusted friend.
Don’t do stupid or unsafe things
- Don’t climb on stuff to see better
- Don’t dart in front of traffic
- Don’t crowd surf or mosh
- Don’t pick fights with people
What if you are hurt at an event?
- Since you looked up the event ahead of time, you’ll know exactly where First Aid is. Go there.
- Get the names and contact info of any witnesses
- Document anything from the scene that you are able with photos or video. Check with bystanders to see if they may have caught any evidence on their cameras as well
- If you are able, fill out a police or incident report
- Document all injuries and expenses related to the incident
- Follow up with a doctor or at the hospital if you are injured and need medical assistance
- Contact a personal injury attorney if you think you have a personal injury case from someone’s else’s negligent conduct
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Oliver Law Office or its attorneys. Laws and regulations vary by jurisdiction, and you should consult a qualified attorney in your area for advice regarding your specific situation.
Jami S. Oliver, CEO & Founder of Oliver Law Office in Dublin, Ohio has been practicing injury law in Ohio since 1993 and has been recognized by her peers as a leading professional in the field of personal injury law. Her firm also handles cases related to trucking crashes, wrongful death, complex employment litigation, drug recalls, injuries from defective products and other serious injury matters. For a free personal injury or wrongful death case evaluation click here.
