New Jersey offers many options for getting out and getting active at some of the best beaches in the country. From the kid-friendly beaches of Ocean City and Wildwood to the quiet and laid-back sands of Cape May and the Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area, there are a wide variety of beach options available in New Jersey.
As the summer continues to heat-up in New Jersey, more and more people are heading to the beaches to enjoy the sand and seas, so make sure you and your family stay safe.
Many people remain attracted to the energy and bustle of locations like Atlantic City and its Boardwalk. However, the more people there are, the more likely it is that someone will take their partying too far and put others at risk. Remember to stay vigilant of others who have had too much to drink or are engaging in reckless or violent behaviors.
Illicit Drug Use and Intoxication
Unfortunately, illicit drug use has become an issue in communities near the shore. For example, in 2012, 53 people died of heroin and prescription drug overdoses in Ocean County. Drug use and abuse can lead to many dangerous situations, including the presence of discarded needles.
While the chances of being infected with a disease from a discarded needle is low, you should always seek immediate medical attention if you are exposed. For example, according to WebMD, the transmission of HIV from accidental contact with a needle is extremely rare and the degree of risk depends on factors, such as:
- How much infected blood you are exposed to; and
- The amount of the virus present in the blood. People who have symptoms or those who are very sick with the disease tend to have greater amounts of the virus in their blood.
The summer months at the beach also leads to an increase in alcohol consumption and you should always be wary of those who have consumed too much. The New Jersey Office of the Attorney General, Division of Alcoholic Beverage Consumption, routinely advises drinkers about changes and updates to alcohol regulations.
When intoxicated, a person’s inhibitions become lowered and this can lead to dangerous activity. This includes driving vehicles or motorboats, taking dangerous risks when swimming in the ocean, drug use and becoming confrontational or irrational.
Establishments can be held liable for the harm caused by their customers if the intoxicated person has been over-served. That said, everyone is encouraged to be cautious around establishments that offer high volumes of alcohol at low prices, as this can lead some to binge drinking.
Aggressive or Risky Behaviors
Fights or other aggressive behaviors can cause serious harm to bystanders. Be safe by being aware of your surroundings. Seek help if someone is beginning to act aggressively or is being unsafe.
Groups – especially intoxicated groups of males – present a particular risk. If you ever feel as though someone (or a group) is acting in a threatening manner, contact the authorities immediately. Police officers are trained to deal with these types of situations, and contacting them early can prevent serious personal injury or property damage.
Getting an Attorney Involved
If you have been injured by someone else’s carelessness while trying to enjoy the beach, contact Helmer, Conley and Kasselman, P.A. for help. A New Jersey injury attorney in our office can assist you through the entire legal process and work to get you the compensation you deserve.
