Preventing Slip and Fall Injuries During the Winter

Snowy and icy conditions during the wintertime could increase the likelihood of slip and fall accidents. Wet pavements, icy roads, and snow could all cause someone to slip, trip and fall. It’s important that we keep our homes free from any hazards that could cause someone from suffering an unfortunate accident. City governments are responsible for keeping roads clear from snow, but home and business owners are liable for accidents on their properties caused by icy or snowy surfaces. Follow these simple tips on preventing a slip and fall accident and what to do in case you or a loved one suffers a slip and fall.

Preventing a Slip and Fall Accident During the Winter

• To avoid slipping on ice or snow, wear shoes that provide traction or extra grip on the surface.

• If your path looks icy, take small shuffling steps to prevent slipping on the ice. If possible, try to walk in the grass or other areas without any ice.

• Always stay alert and look at the ground in front of you before you step, especially in parking lots with curbs and uneven surfaces.

• Try to keep entryways clear of snow, sprinkle salt or sand over areas covered with ice.

• When getting out of your car, place both feet on the ground before standing up to have more stability.

Common Places Where You Can Suffer a Slip and Fall

Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, even in the most unexpected places. They are more common during the winter due to snow and ice accumulating in high traffic areas in your home or business. Some common areas where a slip and fall accident could occur are in entryways. Entryways are high traffic areas, where if snow hasn’t been removed or ice has formed on the surface, people could easily slip and fall. Areas with inadequate lighting could also cause an accident, it’s hard to notice ice in the dark, so keep areas in your home well lit, especially at nighttime. Car accidents caused by winter driving conditions are also common, make sure that you use the proper tires if the roads are icy or snowy, drive slowly and avoid braking or accelerating rapidly on icy or snowy roads.

Common Causes of Slip and Falls in Wintertime

During winter months, icy, snowy, and wet pavements can increase the likelihood of a slip and fall accident. Snow accumulating outside a building could result in a trip and fall. Inadequate lighting on a slippery or icy surface could cause someone to slip. Depending on your state's snow removal laws, the city may be responsible for clearing out snow from the streets, but it’s your responsibility to keep your house’s entry, driveway and walking paths clear from snow and ice to prevent an accident. Sprinkling salt on an icy sidewalk could also prevent a neighbor or other pedestrian from suffering an injury while walking through your property.

What to Do After a Slip and Fall

If you or a loved one has suffered an unfortunate slip and fall accident, seek medical attention immediately. Even if there are no noticeable injuries, the person may have suffered a concussion or another injury that requires medical attention. It’s especially important to visit a hospital or call emergency services if the accident victim is an elderly person. Elderly people are more likely to suffer serious injuries from a slip and fall accident. If you slipped on a business, make sure that you report your accident and injuries to the building owner or business manager, take note of what caused the accident and if possible take pictures of the scene of the accident and your injuries. This evidence can be useful if you wish to file a personal injury claim to seek damages from the business owner for your slip and fall injuries.

Slip and falls can result in serious injuries that could prevent you from working for weeks or even months. The recovery process can be time-consuming, expensive and it can take a toll on your everyday life. This winter season, make sure that you take all the necessary precautions in your home or business to avoid one of these unfortunate accidents. If someone falls on your property and it is determined that your actions caused the accident, you could be held liable and will have to pay damages to the accident victim. Prevent an accident and lengthy legal battles and follow these simple safety tips to prevent a slip and fall.