There are approximately 3 million emergency department visits in the United States each year among older adults who have fallen, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). One in four older adults experience a fall each year, and falls are the top cause of injury-related deaths among older adults.
Although older adult falls occur indoors more frequently than outdoors, weather-related factors like ice, snow, or freezing rain leads to a higher risk of fall injuries in the winter months. In addition to weather conditions, lower physical activity in the winter can lead to diminished muscle strength and bone loss.
Slip-and-fall accidents can lead to injuries, ongoing medical costs, and lost wages. Keep reading to learn more about common winter fall hazards and actionable safety tips.
Common Winter Hazards
Freezing temperatures can create slippery sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots. Poorly maintained walkways with uncleared snow, untreated ice, and uneven surfaces can lead to winter slip-and-fall injuries.
Another common winter hazard is reduced visibility due to shorter days and poor outdoor lighting. Wearing the right shoes for the weather is often overlooked, but a good pair of non-slip shoes or boots can help mitigate the risk of falling.
Staying Safe on Icy Surfaces
Non-slip waterproof boots and attachable ice cleats can provide traction to help you keep your balance when conditions are slippery. Walk like a penguin by taking short steps and keeping your center of gravity forward on icy surfaces. If you anticipate being outside when conditions are slippery, consider bringing along a small container of sand or kitty litter to sprinkle on icy patches.
Watch out for black ice, which is particularly hard to see on the road. Look for shiny spots or areas that look wet but don’t have water on them. Black ice can appear slightly darker and duller than the rest of the road. It forms most often when it’s raining and the air temperature is at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit at the surface. If the temperature is freezing, be cautious and treat every wet spot on the road as black ice.
Keep your hands out of your pockets for better balance and avoid distractions. Icy conditions require extra care. Use available railings and handholds when navigating stairs or ramps to prevent slips and falls.
Practical Considerations After a Slip-and-Fall Accident
Who is liable for a sidewalk slip and fall accident? That depends on who is responsible for maintaining the sidewalk. It may be the owner of property the sidewalk crosses or a government entity like the city or county. To hold a person or entity liable for a sidewalk slip and fall injury, you must prove that the party was negligent and that the negligence led to the accident. Get medical attention and document your injuries right away. Consult an experienced personal injury attorney who understands premises liability to determine whether you have an injury case.
Stay Safe This Winter
Recognizing slip and fall hazards and taking precautions can help prevent falls. If you’ve experienced an injury due to a slip-and-fall accident, reach out to Schuerman Law for advice.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
