The winter months are known for frigid temperatures, cloudy skies, and icy sidewalks. While property owners are responsible for salting their sidewalks, some of them may neglect to do this all the time. Slipping and falling on ice can result in head injuries, broken bones, and other serious injuries. Individuals who slipped and fell on ice because of someone else’s negligence should talk to a personal injury lawyer, like a slip and fall lawyer Woodland Hills, CA trusts, about filing a claim.
Here are some tips on how to avoid slipping and falling on ice:
Wear the Right Shoes
A pair of snow boots with good traction will not just keep your feet warm; they will also help prevent falls in icy sidewalks. If you have to go to work or another place that requires you to wear different shoes, just pack the extra pair of shoes in your bag and change into them when you get to your destination.
Walk Slow
The winter is not the time to be a speed demon while you are walking. If you walk too fast while you’re outside, you run the risk of slipping and falling on icy surfaces. Give yourself extra time to get to where you need to be so that you can walk slower.
Don’t Walk With Your Hands in Your Pockets
It is common for people to walk with their hands in their pockets in the wintertime to keep warm. Unfortunately, doing this can affect your balance and prevent you from breaking your fall if you do slip. Wear a warm pair of gloves so that you don’t have to keep your hands in your pockets.
Remain Alert When Inside
It is important to be aware of your surroundings, even when you get inside a warm building. Other people can bring in moisture from the outside, creating slippery floors. Keep an eye out for wet floors when you get inside a building so that you avoid slipping and falling.
Wipe Your Feet When You Get Inside
When you come inside after being outside in the winter, remember to wipe your feet thoroughly. Doing this will help keep the floors dry and prevent slip and fall accidents.
Be Aware of Black Ice
Black ice looks like a dark, wet spot on the ground and can be very slippery. If you see a spot on the ground that looks wet, be very careful walking around it.
Use Handrails When Possible
If you have to walk up some stairs outside in the winter, always use handrails when available. If you hold onto a handrail, you can avoid falling.
If you were injured in a slip and fall accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, you should consult with a personal injury lawyer. You may be eligible for compensation. A personal injury lawyer may help you file a timely claim and improve your chances of getting fair compensation.
Thanks to our friends and contributors from Barry P. Goldberg, A Professional Law Corporation for their insight into slip and fall cases.
