An Accident During SXSW: Not The Way You Wanted To Smash a Guitar

Once more, SXSW emerges in Austin, Texas. For those of us who live here, we know to expect thousands of visitors coming to enjoy some great live music and experience other forms of art. Austin musicians and artists have a unique opportunity to feature their talents in front of people from all over the world, especially producers and other music executives. Because the fun can sometimes get out of control, we have to be especially careful during this time while out on the streets. Even when we ourselves are not drinking and driving or driving while being distracted, others may be doing so.

If you expect to be out, make sure that you stay alert and drive defensively.  The hazards in our beloved city will be everywhere and in a second, all the fun could be stolen from us through a deadly accident.

As a driver, we recommend that you absolutely refrain from consuming any intoxicating substance. But, we are also going to be realistic: if you are over the age of 21 and plan on having some adult beverages, get a taxi or a ride-share vehicle. It will always be cheaper than the consequences you will be face when you get pulled over for driving while intoxicated or hurting someone on the road.

Pedestrians are no safer by refraining from driving, quite the contrary. Common sense will tell you what can happen if you get struck by a driver who fails to yield to a pedestrian: the force of the impact could cause life-threatening injuries. Always look both ways and proceed with caution. Do not assume drivers will yield to you or that they have seen you.

With the emergence of newer and cleaner transportation options, Austin now counts itself among one of the cities that hosts a number of companies offering electronic scooter services. Call it Lime or Byrd, these new ways of inexpensive transportation provide challenges, especially for inexperienced drivers. Scooters that are driven in the streets expose to drivers to being placed in different vehicles blind spots, sometimes at once. If you are going to ride a scooter, wear a helmet. Although there is no assurance that a helmet will protect you from all possible injuries, it is better than nothing.

Riding a bike may seem like a a great idea to avoid the traffic jams the rest of the drivers will be facing during this time. However, always follow street signs and traffic directives just like any other vehicle. Running a stop sign because you think you have the right of way may guarantee you get struck and potentially sustain deadly injuries.

We hope you enjoy SXSW the safest way possible. If you or someone you love gets injured during SX, call Ramos James Law at 512-537-3369. We offer complimentary consults, travel to where you are, and you only pay when we win. At Ramos James law, we take it personal.[:es]Una vez más, SXSW emerge en Austin, Texas.