7 Tips to Prevent Slip & Fall Accidents During Winter Season

The winter season has just begun. Winter is a beloved season for many people because of the holidays and the snow. Nonetheless, the snow may create very hazardous conditions. Slip and fall incidents are more common in the winter. If you are not cautious, the snow, water, ice, wind, and cold weather make walking outside, taking the bus, grocery shopping, and other routine tasks more risky. Slip and fall incidents can produce minor injuries that do not require medical care. A slip and fall accident, on the other hand, has the potential to cause significant injury.

To keep safe this winter, it is essential to be attentive and take the necessary precautions. Unfortunately, it is not possible to prevent all accidents. If you slip and fall and you get injured, you may be entitled to compensation. There are laws that protect people in case they fall on someone else’s property due to the property owner’s negligence. Contact an experienced slip and fall accident if you have recently suffered an injury after slipping and falling.

7 Tips to Prevent Slip & Fall Accidents During Winter Season

A lot of slip and fall accidents are preventable. Here’s a list of tips that can help you prevent slip and fall accidents during winter season:

1. Wear appropriate footwear: Wearing inappropriate footwear for snowy weather is one of the leading causes of slip and fall accidents. Look for shoes with textured soles that will provide you with adequate traction when walking on slippery surfaces. When it’s freezing outdoors, insulated boots are ideal for keeping your feet dry and warm. Shoes with little traction or texture on the sole, high heels, or shoes with plastic or leather soles should be avoided.
2. Leave home earlier: If you have to leave for school, work, or an appointment, leave sooner than normal. You do not want to be rushing through the streets or walking at breakneck speed simply to make it on time. You might easily slip and fall if you come across an icy sidewalk.
3. Minimize hazardous conditions at home: Check that the downspouts and gutters are not leaking or leaking water onto the pathways. Water from any source should not be directed toward pathways, driveways, or sidewalks. Standing water can freeze and produce a dangerously slippery surface.
4. Identify possible dangers: When you enter a building, check around to see if there are any harmful circumstances. If you observe puddles of water, a lot of snow, or an uneven floor, try to avoid stepping near such risks.
5. Use handrails: Use handrails whenever you see them. Using handrails will significantly help stabilize yourself in case you lose your balance or if you trip. But before holding using any handrails, make sure that they are properly secured. Loose handrails can be dangerous as well.
6. Take small and short steps: Taking smaller steps than usual will help you keep stable when walking on slippery surfaces. Walk slowly and try not to lift your feet too much.
7. Do not get distracted: Always walk with awareness of your surroundings. You should not walk about with your hands in your pockets. If you slide, you may grab anything swiftly before falling. However, if you have your hands in your pockets, you may be unable to respond swiftly. Do not walk while on the phone. While walking, you may not notice risky situations, which might lead you to slip and fall.

Most Common Injuries Resulting from a Slip & Fall Accident

Slip and fall accidents can cause a wide variety of injuries. They can range from minor injuries that do not require medical attention to very severe injuries that can have permanent consequences. These are some of the most common injuries caused by slip and fall accidents:

• Bruises
• Broken bones
• Concussions
• Cuts and lacerations
• Joint injuries (knees, shoulders, elbows, etc)
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries

What to Do Immediately After If You Do Slip & Fall?

The most important thing to do right after a slip and fall injury is to seek medical help. Some injuries can significantly worsen if they are not treated quickly. Furthermore, it is crucial that a doctor verifies that you are in good condition.

Another important thing to do after a slip and fall injury is to take photos and collect evidence of the accident scene. If you fell in a place where the property owners must keep the premises safe, you might be able to pursue compensation for your injuries.

Finally, speak to an experienced slip and fall attorney to learn more about your legal options. An attorney can help you build a solid evidence based case that can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.

Know Who To Call! – New York Slip and Fall Attorneys

Greenberg & Stein P.C. is a prestigious law firm based in New York. At our law firm you can find the assistance you need. We have very experienced slip and fall attorneys ready to help you get the compensation you deserve. We have helped countless New Yorkers who have been in very complicated situations. Our attorneys will act on behalf of you, help you get the evidence you need, negotiate with insurance companies and represent you in court if necessary. Contact us at 888-716-3843 to schedule a free consultation to review your case.