4 Common Wintertime Injuries
As we enter the winter months and anticipate holiday travel and activities, we must also be cautious of the increase in ER visits this season brings. No matter what you’re doing this time of year, accidents and injuries can happen any time, any place. Although these incidents are not entirely preventable, there are simple steps you can take to avoid them.
Here are four of the most common wintertime injuries and how to avoid them.
Car Accidents from Icy Roads
Winter weather can make driving more dangerous and increase your chances of getting into a car accident, especially if you’re driving on snow or ice. When the roads are slick, you can lose control of your car and slide right off the road or into another vehicle. Injuries from these accidents can vary from minor bumps and bruises to major breaks, sprains, and even death. Always keep an eye on the weather and stay home when the road conditions are inadequate to avoid sustaining injuries. If you must travel, follow safe winter driving tips and give yourself extra time to get to your location.
Car Accidents from Ice Flying Off Cars
Before you get on the road after a snowstorm, you must clean your car off to get to your destination safely. However, you need to clean more than just your front and rear windshield. You should clean the entire vehicle, including the roof. If you leave snow on your car’s roof while driving, it can fly off in heavy chunks, landing on other cars or distracting other drivers and potentially causing accidents.
Slipping and Falling on Icy Sidewalks
Wherever snow, slush, or ice is present, there is the possibility of slipping, falling, and injuring yourself. To lessen your chances of this happening and to stay safe after a winter storm, always walk on shoveled, salted paths and wear snow boots with good traction. Make sure you shovel your entire property and salt any walkways to help keep those walking by your property safe.
Slipping and Falling on Wet Floors
It’s not just icy sidewalks that can lead to slips and falls. You should also remember to be cautious of slipping and falling indoors. As people enter buildings, melted snow and ice can get tracked inside, making the floors wet and slippery. Always wipe your feet off as best as possible before entering a building and walk with shorter strides until you’ve reached a carpeted or dry area.
What to Do if You Are Injured in a Winter Car Accident or Slip and Fall
Having fun and getting out of the house during the winter months is important, but one wrong move can put you in pain for days, weeks, or even months. Simply being aware of potential risks and preparing for accidents significantly reduces your risk for injury.
If you are involved in a car accident, ensure you get to safety first. Remain on the scene, take photos, and make any witnesses aware of the situation. You should also file a report and see a doctor. After a slip and fall, you’ll want to take pictures, notify the property owner, make a report, and seek medical treatment. Whether you’re in a car accident or slip and fall, you’ll also want to contact an attorney who will ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident or suffered from a personal injury during the winter season, contact the expert lawyers at Flager & Associates today by calling (215) 953-5200. We provide free case evaluations.
Written by Adam D. Flager, Esq., Associate at Flager & Associates, PC
With his practice focused on litigation, Adam primarily represents clients in personal injury cases, such as motor vehicle, slip and fall, defective products, and construction and worksite accidents. He is licensed to practice in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the State of New Jersey, the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the District of New Jersey, and the United States Court of Appeals, 3rd Circuit. Adam received his J.D. from Widener University School of Law in 2009, where he graduated with pro-Bono Distinction.
