Whether you’re managing a workplace, processing disability claims, or just enjoying the season, understanding common summer risks can help prevent the types of injuries that lead to IMEs. Here’s what to watch for - and how to stay safe.
Summer is a season of sunshine, long weekends, and outdoor adventures. But with all the excitement, there’s also a spike in injuries that can lead to disruptions at work - and in life. At NYRC, we regularly see an uptick in Independent Medical Examination (IME) referrals during and after summer, many stemming from preventable accidents.
Whether you’re managing a workplace, processing disability claims, or just enjoying the season, understanding common summer risks can help prevent the types of injuries that lead to IMEs. Here’s what to watch for - and how to stay safe.
Why Injuries Spike in Summer
Summer is Canada’s most active season, and with that activity comes a rise in accidents and injuries. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), emergency room visits for injuries increase by over 20% in the summer months compared to winter. The top culprits? Recreational activities, road traffic accidents, and seasonal work injuries.
Top Causes of Summer Injuries
- 1. Recreational Sports & Outdoor Activities
From pickup soccer games to hiking trails and backyard trampolines, summer fun can quickly turn into a sprain, tear, or fracture. Knee, ankle, and shoulder injuries are especially common - and often require orthopaedic assessments.
Safety Tip: Warm up before activity, use proper gear, and know your limits.
- 2. Motor Vehicle Accidents
With road trips, construction zones, and increased cyclist and pedestrian traffic, summer roads are busier - and more dangerous. Transport Canada reports a consistent increase in motor vehicle collisions during July and August.
Safety Tip: Drive defensively, avoid distractions, and leave extra travel time. Employers with driving staff should reinforce safe driving protocols during summer.
- 3. Seasonal Employment & Outdoor Work
Construction, landscaping, agriculture, and delivery services all peak in summer - and so do related injuries. Musculoskeletal injuries, heat stress, and slips and falls are common and may lead to occupational IMEs.
Safety Tip: Provide proper PPE, hydration breaks, and site-specific safety briefings for seasonal staff.
- 4. Falls from Heights
Summer DIY projects like roof repairs or cleaning gutters lead to many preventable falls. Falls are a leading cause of injury-related hospitalizations in Canada.
Safety Tip: Use secure ladders, never work alone, and consider hiring a professional for high-risk jobs.
How NYRC Supports Injury Recovery
When injuries do occur, NYRC plays a critical role in helping individuals and organizations understand the extent of an injury and how best to move forward. Our Independent Medical Examinations provide objective, evidence-based assessments that help clarify diagnoses, evaluate functional abilities, and guide safe return-to-work planning.
We work with a broad network of specialists - including orthopaedics, physiatry, psychology, and occupational medicine - to ensure timely, high-quality IMEs across Canada.
Fast Facts: Summer Injuries & IMEs
- July and August consistently see the highest rate of injury-related disability claims in Canada.
- 35% of IMEs in summer months relate to recreational injuries or motor vehicle accidents.
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- Lower extremity injuries (knee, ankle)
- Shoulder and back injuries
- Concussions and whiplash
- Psychological impacts related to accidents
Stay Safe, Stay Active
Summer doesn’t have to be risky. With a few precautions, individuals can enjoy the season without incident - and organizations can help prevent the injuries that lead to disability claims and IMEs.
And when accidents do happen, NYRC is here to help ensure a fair, expert-driven path forward.
Need to book an IME or learn more about our services?
Contact our team now.
