In recent years the term "staycation" has become popular. Previuosly, you and your family may have gone away for extended get-aways - renting a house at the beach or lake, going to a resort to relax and sight-see, but with high fuel costs and expensive airplane fees taking their toll, this continues to be a popular choice for many.
Being close to home doesn't mean throwing caution to the wind. Children may go to a day camp rather than sleep-away camp, and who's minding them at any sports and recreational groups? Parties at your house can bring lawsuits if alcohol is served and gets in a wreck on the way home. We don't want to scare you; just be realistic - and don't get sued.
Remember your state and city may have its own laws, but these general Summer Staycation Tips and additional articles to provide further details can help put you at ease. Also, find out what to do to have a safe and cost-saving vacation.
Having a Party at Your Home?
The Sound of Children Playing
The summer is filled with more than enough activities for children to participate in: Swimming, baseball, basketball, theater programs, and camps for just about any type of activity. There are many issues surrounding children's sports and games that you should be aware of as a parent to protect your child and ensure a safe and sound return.
Who's on First? Protect Yourself at the Ballgame and other Public Activities
Automobile Trips
Accident
It's not just a myth that most automobile accidents happen close to home; it's a fact that about 50% of all accidents happen within 10 miles of your home. This is usually explained that you're less aware of your surrounding because you're traveled those roads more often. Between 10 and 20 miles from home the percentage goes down, but increases again after 20 miles from home.
Traffic Violations & DUI/DWI
Summer parties and cool drinks go hand in hand, but you or your guests should not drive afterward. Ensure that your guests have a designated driver and that they don't get into their cars even after 1 or 2 drinks without waiting a while to "cool down." It's better to be prepared for stayovers than risk a lawsuit for an accident.
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Traffic Violations
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DUI/DWI : Know what this means; it's not just limited to alcohol
- As a party host, you have a lot of work to do, and some of that may be supplying alcohol to your guests. What is your Social Host Alcohol Liability when you have a party in your home?
- If you have a party outside your home are you responsible if your guests get in an accident after they leave, or is it the Commercial Liability of the venue?
- What are the possible consequences for alcohol-related Driving Deaths? Remember, DWI/DUI laws aren't limited to operating a car or truck. Air or boating incidents can happen as well.
Out-of-Town Travel
Still traveling out of town for a vacation? Keep these tips in mind no matter how far you go.
International Travel
- Getting a passport may not be as easy as it once was. Start the process early so a close-call doesn't slow you down
- Traveling internationally can be hazardous, not just because of terror alerts, but bad weather and the risk of the unknown. Even if you're traveling in the US, let have a backup contact who knows where you're going
Rental Cars
If you decide to go on a longer journey by car, you may decide to rent a car to keep yours nice. Know what your responsibility is if you get into an accident with a rental car.
Contracts
When you make arrangements for any type of activity, you'll probably be asked to sign a contract for services rendered. The contract provides the "terms" that you agree to when you sign your name on the "X." When you make reservations at hotels, camps; sign swimming pool liability papers, rental car agreements, airline reservations - you're saying that you agree to the company's terms. If you're unsure what you're getting yourself into, be sure to read the contract carefully even if it's long or you might agree to something you can't get out of.
Additional Resources