With Spring Break coming up, there are going to be a lot more people out and about. Masses of college students will be going out of town or coming back into town. There are so many options these days for high school and college students when it comes to Spring Break. Therefore, because I work for an injury attorney, I wanted to give everyone a few tips to survive and be safe during break. I am in by no means saying that people should not have fun. Just be safe while you are having fun. Especially if you decide to visit another country. *Note: if you are suffering from injuries that you sustained in another country, unfortunately we will not be able to represent you in your case.* If you are suffering from injuries due to an accident, contact an accident lawyer at Silverthorne Attorneys to discuss your case. Consultations are free!
Injury Attorney | Go With a Group
Personally, I do not mind traveling on my own. However, working with an injury attorney, and everything that is reported in the media, I believe that there is safety in numbers. Plus, most airlines and hotels offer group discounts for 10 or more. and if you share a room, you have the potential to cut your rate in half.
Not only are there financial benefits of traveling in a group, there are also other benefits to traveling in a group. Like I said before, safety in numbers. When you have someone with you and people know where you are and what you are doing, there is an extra element of safety to it.
Safety On the Beach
One of the funniest things I found when doing research said, “don’t be stupid in the ocean.” It makes sense though. If you are going to the beach and you plan on swimming in the ocean, be knowledgeable of currents and tides. Strong currents can quickly carry you farther out if you aren’t careful. Swimming out of these currents is counterintuitive. They suggest you speak with a lifeguard before swimming in the ocean.
Pick an “Unpopular Beach”
I know quite a bit of people who went to Cancun over their Spring Break. and that’s great. However, because it is such a tourist area, the crime rate goes up. We suggest trying other beach towns that maybe aren’t as popular. Even when you want to get away. There are other beaches include:
- Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – This is a less expensive alternative than Punta Cana. Santo Domingo offers white-sand beaches, casinos, and plenty of night-life;
- Costa Rica – Rising in popularity every year, this is a wonderful beach vacation alternative. However, research has shown, because it becomes more popular, the destinations prices continue to rise. Alternatively, if you are able to avoid major tourist areas, you can find a great deal;
- Puerto Rico – White-sand beaches, vibrant night light, jungles, and plenty of daily activities to do with a group of people.
Don’t Post Your Location
Most people like to share aspects of their lives on social media. However, working for an accident lawyer, I can tell you that it is important to protect your location on your social media sites. That doesn’t mean that you have stop posting at all. We just recommend that you turn your geo-tag off. This is because it can put you in danger or it can show that you are not home and someone may think your home is a free-for-all.
You can adjust your privacy settings on each app and use your best judgment.
Travel Insurance
Most student health insurance policies will not cover individuals when they are in another country. Most travel agencies offer good deals on travel insurance for people who are traveling out of the country. Insurance covers illnesses, injury and emergency evacuation coverage.
Safe Drinking
Okay, that seems like an oxymoron. However, it is naive to think that most college students who leave on spring break are not going to drink at one point during their trip. Drinking in the hot tub is a huge no-no. This may seem ridiculous, I know. But, did you know that alcohol can dilate blood vessels and lowers your blood pressure to dangerous levels. Which means that the effects of drinking are felt faster and stronger if you are sitting in a hot tub. Plus, if you aren’t being responsible, there is a potential drowning risk.
Another, and probably one of the most important things to remember when drinking is: keep an eye on your drink. Whether its an alcoholic drink or not. Don’t put your cup down or accept drinks from someone you do not know. Know your limits!! Keep in mind that you can still have fun without binge drinking. Never feel peer pressure (I know, difficult) to “keep up” with anyone else.
Stay Alert
When you are in an unfamiliar place, you should always keep your guard up. Ever since moving to Southern California from Northern California, my mom still tells me to be on guard when I’m out and about. However, it is exceptionally crucial to be aware of your surroundings when you are in an unfamiliar place. in general, try to stick to well-lit, well-populated areas. This is whether or not you are out at the beach, drinking, or going from one place to another.
Keep an eye out for your friends and though it may be tempting, do not allow any of your friends to leave with someone they just met.
Most of the time, there is a chance that nothing out of the ordinary will happen. However, like I keep saying, better to be safe than sorry.
Suffering from Injuries? Contact an Accident Lawyer Today!
If you are suffering from injuries due to an accident, please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your case. Consultations with an injury attorney in our office are free!
Be safe out there!