Some of the most popular spring break destinations are also the most dangerous for students and families traveling over the next several weeks.
Orlando, Florida; Lake Havasu, Arizona and South Padre Island in Texas are ranked in the top 25 most dangerous places to spend spring break, according to a study that evaluated the risk of violent crimes, murder, rape and fatal car crashes in 25 U.S. cities.
Whether groups decide to travel or stay in town, there are risks associated with high volumes of people in one place anywhere in the country, and this is especially common in areas where the majority of travelers are minors and young adults.
Some of the most common threats spring break vacationers face are disorderly conduct and assault arrests, citations involving alcohol abuse like underage drinking and DUI, possession charges and property damage.
During spring break at beaches in the Gulf Coast last March, approximately 1,000 people were sent to jail – not warned or cited – for underage drinking. Police had to enforce this type of zero-tolerance policy due to the number of fatal drug and alcohol cases they were facing.
Those are just a few of the dangers spring breakers can pose to themselves, outside factors that could contribute to a dangerous vacation are kidnappings, theft and other violent crimes that may result from existing issues in the area, even if there are no travel restrictions in place.
Rocky Point in Mexico is sought after among Arizona residents who are looking for a nearby, affordable beach vacation. Despite its popularity, however, Rocky Point has had its share of dangerous incidents at the border and in tourist-heavy locations at the time.
In December 2013, a shooting involving Mexican police and military personnel left five men dead near a luxury hotel in Rocky Point.
To address possible hazards in neighboring areas, universities and government agencies alike are taking initiatives to prevent dangerous spring break situations.
The University of Arizona hosted its eighth annual Spring Break Safety Fair the first week of March, before spring break. The University of Arizona Police Department and Associated Students of the University of Arizona run the event to give students travel and safety tips no matter where they decide to spend the break.
Parents and students are advised to take the proper measures, such as sharing all travel information with someone at home, using the buddy system and staying alert, to ensure that spring break is more fun than trouble.
Corso Law Group knows that more often than not, fun times anywhere can easily lead to mistakes and accidents.
Don’t handle legal trouble on your own, call Corso Law Group anytime for help (480) 471-4616.