Thompsons NI supports Injury Prevention Week

Thompsons NI is proud to support Injury Prevention Week. This year, for the first time, the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers have extended their annual Injury Prevention Day to a full week, running from 17^th to 21^st August.

Thompsons NI, an APIL accredited Firm, supports the campaigning of APIL for reform to improve the law for injured people - although obviously we would prefer for individuals not to be injured in the first place.

This year, the focus of APIL’s campaign is on road safety for pedestrians, with an emphasis on children who are preparing to return to school in the next week or so. Given the lengthy absence from school as a result of the school holidays and school closures due to COVID-19, such a safety reminder is well-timed.

A YouGov survey carried out in partnership with APIL found that approximately 12% of UK parents were concerned about their children’s road safety awareness and knowledge. Almost two-thirds of parents did not think that their children had a good understanding of the dangers or concentrated near roads. The survey also worryingly revealed that only 44% of non- drivers knew how to identify if a car was reversing.

Another identified risk was that of the distraction caused by the use of mobile phones. Whilst there has been much publicity about the dangers of drivers using mobile phones, we tend to forget the distraction that can also be caused to pedestrians. APIL’s research revealed that 72% of drivers have often seen people, whilst using a mobile phone, walking into the road without looking.

At Thompsons NI, we represent the victims of road traffic accidents, both drivers and pedestrians, and unfortunately have witnessed the devastating injuries and consequences that can be caused. We, therefore, urge individuals to be more aware of their surroundings and potential dangers. We also support APIL’s call for all parents to be proactive and to ensure that their children understand the Green Cross Code.

If you have been injured as a result of a road traffic accident and would like to speak to one of our specialist solicitors for further advice, please contact our office on 02890 890450 for a free, no-obligation consultation.