Summer Accidents in the Hamptons

Summer in the Hamptons brings sun, surf, and a steady stream of locals, tourists, and seasonal renters. But with increased activity comes an increased risk of injury — from poolside accidents to boating collisions and everything in between. If you or a loved one is hurt during the summer season, understanding your rights and who may be liable is the first step toward recovering compensation.

Common Summer Injuries in the Hamptons

Whether you’re staying at a vacation rental, visiting a friend’s home, or enjoying a public beach or resort, injuries can happen in a variety of ways:

1. Swimming Pool Accidents

• Slips and falls on wet surfaces
• Diving injuries due to lack of depth markers
• Inadequate supervision or faulty fencing
• Drain entrapment or poor pool maintenance

2. Boating and Jet Ski Accidents

• Collisions caused by reckless operation
• Inexperienced or intoxicated drivers
• Poor weather conditions or overcrowded waters
• Injuries due to malfunctioning rental equipment

3. Slip and Falls

• Uneven walkways or stairs at rental homes
• Spills in beachside restaurants and shops
• Loose tiles or broken decks on vacation properties

4. Burns and Fire Injuries

• BBQs, fire pits, and bonfires
• Faulty propane tanks or grills
• Fireworks accidents

5. Traffic and Pedestrian Accidents

• Increased congestion on Montauk Highway and local roads
• Pedestrian injuries in busy beach towns
• Biking accidents on narrow or poorly maintained paths

Who’s Liable for a Summer Injury?

Depending on the situation, different parties may be held legally responsible for your injuries:

• Property owners or landlords – for unsafe conditions in vacation homes, pools, or walkways
• Rental companies – for defective equipment like boats, jet skis, or bikes
• Operators of boats or vehicles – for negligent or reckless behavior
• Hospitality businesses – for slips, burns, or food service-related injuries
• Municipalities – for unsafe public beaches, sidewalks, or road conditions

Liability often depends on whether the party had a duty to maintain a safe environment and whether their negligence led to the injury.

What Should You Do After an Injury?

If you’re hurt while visiting or living in the Hamptons:

1. Get medical attention immediately
2. Document the scene – photos, names of witnesses, and details about the property or accident
3. Report the incident – to local authorities, lifeguards, or property managers
4. Avoid signing waivers or making statements until you’ve spoken with a lawyer

Can You File a Claim if You’re a Tourist?

Yes. Out-of-state visitors and short-term renters have the same right to file personal injury claims in New York as residents. You can still recover damages for:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Long-term rehabilitation or disability