Don’t Let Slippery Conditions Take You Down

Man Slipped And Injured Back On Icy Street

In our last blog we discussed how to increase safety while driving during the winter months. But driving is not the only activity you have to be mindful of. Walking outside during a wintry mix is also quite dangerous and can lead to some serious injuries. According to the National Floor Safety Institute, slip and falls account for over 1 million ER visits or 12 percent of total falls. Slip and falls do not only cause broken bones, they are also the third highest cause of unintentional deaths, and in 2014 alone 32,000 people died due to a fall.

Although slip and fall accidents occur year round, injuries are more common during the winter months due to the presence of snow and ice in parking lots, sidewalks, stairs, and floors. SFM: The Work Comp Experts has estimated that 25 percent of ice and snow related falls occur in parking lots and 20 percent of these parking lot falls result in lost time from work.

How to Avoid a Slip and Fall Accident

In order to protect yourself from getting injured in a slip and fall accident this winter, it’s important to remember a few key points offered by SFM:

  1. Always wear proper footwear. This means no heals or smooth-soled shoes that are easily susceptible to slippery surfaces.
  2. Avoid carrying items and keeping your hands out of your pockets. It’s important to keep your hands empty so your arms are free to move for stabilization.
  3. Exercise caution when getting in and out of vehicles. Always plant your feet firmly on the ground instead of hopping out of your car.
  4. Walk like a penguin. While walking on snowy or icy pavement it’s important to focus on your footing and taking short, slow, and flat-footed steps.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a slip-and-fall accident in Massachusetts or Rhode Island, contact us today for a free consultation. Members of our team are available 24/7 to take your call.