Do More People Actually Slip and Fall in Cold Weather?

According to the National Safety Council, slips, trips and falls are the third leading cause of unintentional deaths nationally. It should not surprise you that a number of slip and fall accidents occur as a result of cold weather. The reason is somewhat apparent.

Winter weather brings an array of risk factors. The obvious is precipitation. Snow and ice make it difficult to maintain balance. It doesn’t just have to snow or rain. The occasional hailstorm may also cause issues. Cold weather also means the possibility that pipes can freeze. When they burst, they can add to hazardous conditions.

People immediately think of snow laden walkways when they consider weather-related accidents. However, it’s not just concern about snow and ice accumulation that create potential problems. When snow or slush is tracked into a building, you can count on a slippery surface. Some cold weather fall down accidents actually occurs indoors.

Some Safety Tips to Avoid Winter Slip and Falls

You may be reading this article after the fact.  You may already have suffered a broken leg or head injury as a result of slipping and falling on ice.  If that’s the case, you should speak with an experienced premises liability attorney to see if you have a claim arising from your accident.

Everyone knows about defensive driving.  We’ve decided to focus on defensive walking.  Perhaps some injuries can be avoided by following these safety tips:

• Wear suitable shoes for the weather. It’s less important to be fashionable than it is to be safe.  Find yourself a pair of boots that are marked slip-resistant.
• Walk slowly. Just because you don’t see slippery conditions does not mean they are non-existent.  Black ice can take you by surprise.
• Be alert. You don’t just have to worry about outside obstacles.  A wet floor can also cause you to go flying in the air.
• Grab hold of handrails whenever possible. Gain some stability as you maneuver your way through snow and ice.
• Follow plowed or well-trodden paths. Although it might be tempting to take shortcuts during cold weather, you could be putting yourself at unnecessary risk.
• Remove snow and ice from your footwear. As soon as you reach your destination, brush off any accumulation.  Otherwise, the melting substances can create a hazardous condition.

A slip and fall accident in bad weather is often more than just a tremendous inconvenience.  Those over age 55 are often the aptest to fall.  Unfortunately, they also sustain the most severe injuries.

Need to Investigate a Claim?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a weather-related fall down accident, the Law Offices of Anthony Carbone would like to speak with you.  Contact us for help in investigating the viability of a claim concerning your accident.  There is no charge to meet with us.

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