It is no secret that we face many challenges when the temperature drops. Whether you work outside or just a pedestrian, the chances of suffering a slip and fall injury during the winter or fall seasons dramatically increase.
Injuries sustained from a slip and fall accident range from minor to severe, often depending on many different circumstances. Those with preexisting conditions or the elderly are likely to suffer the more debilitating injuries, but even people who suffer a minor fall injury are affected by it for several days or weeks. Some common injuries include:
- Sprained ligaments or strained muscles
- Fractures or broken bones
- Back, neck, or spine injuries
- Head or brain injuries
Streets, walkways, and stairs all tend to get dangerously slippery during this time of year, especially when they have not been properly treated. Even if the roads are salted or the sidewalk has been shoveled, there is still a good chance you could lose traction. Here are a few tips you could follow to stay safe out outdoors:
- Take your time. If you do have to walk over snow or ice, take small, deliberate steps. This will help keep your feet underneath you to help with stability. You can also try to walk on salted areas, or if there is grass nearby, which will provide more traction.
- Wear appropriate gear. Use footwear that has slip-resistant soles, which work well in less-than-ideal conditions. Rubber soles or boots help as well, but make sure they fit correctly. Finally, you can also use gloves that have rubber grips, which provide stability while holding onto handrails.
- Keep hands free. Be sure to keep your gloved hands free from carrying anything or keeping them in your pockets. That way, in the event of a fall, you can use your arms or hands to catch yourself.
- Step down. Parking lots or driveways can get icier than other surfaces, so when getting out of your car, try swinging both legs out first and put both feet flat on the ground before getting out. This is better than just swinging one leg out and using one foot for stability.
- Plan ahead. Before you travel, it is best to leave early. Not only will this help you navigate your car through wintery conditions, but also if you arrive at your destination with time to spare, you do not have to hurry and can take your time.
- If you do fall. If you do slip or fall, the best thing to do is to use your arms or hands first to subdue the impact and to protect your head at all costs. If you fall backwards, try to tuck your chin into your chest. If you cannot use your arms or hands, tuck your body in and roll with the impact, which evens out the force.
Should you fall or slip, check yourself for any injuries. If you immediately feel pain, do not get up and yell for help or use your phone to get help. Do not try to get up unless you feel well enough to do so and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
The owner of a property, whether it is private or a business, is obligated to maintain it so it is reasonably safe for others. Should you fall on a person’s property whom you do not know, it may be difficult to determine the liable party. If it is someone you know, you may be able to file a claim with their property insurance. But the best option after seeking medical assistance is to contact a slip and fall lawyer as soon as possible. The lawyer can discuss the details of your case and help you with any questions you may have.
Atlantic City Slip and Fall Lawyers at the D’Amato Law Firm Help Those Injured During the Winter and Fall Seasons
If you or a loved one has been injured, reach out to the Atlantic City slip and fall lawyers at the D’Amato Law Firm. Our skilled and knowledgeable team has years of experience handling these types of cases and will get the compensation for which you are entitled. Call us today at 609-926-3300 or contact us online for a free consultation. With an office in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, we assist clients in Atlantic City, Linwood, Galloway Township, Cape May, Vineland, Millville, Bridgeton, Ocean City, Woodbury, and across South Jersey.