As the saying goes, winter is coming. For you and other Connecticut residents, this means months of dealing with snow, slush and ice – not only when you are driving, but anywhere you walk. Falls make up a significant portion of personal injury claims, since it is so easy to trip or slip, especially when the walking conditions are less than ideal.
EHS Today points out that slip-and-fall accidents are one of the most common injury incidents on the job, and they can result in serious, long-lasting injuries. Whether you are at work or running errands off the clock, you will want to take note of the most effective ways to protect yourself from a bad fall this winter:
- Understand that in winter weather, the entryways of public buildings are likely to be wet and slippery. Watch for wet floor signs and walk on mats wherever they are located. Thoroughly wipe your shoes off on mats to dry them before you step on tile or linoleum.
- Be especially careful getting in or out of your vehicle. Slippery ice can be hiding underneath a fresh blanket of snow, and dangerous black ice often looks like harmless wet pavement.
- Wear snow boots or shoes with sturdy non-slip soles.
- Leave at least one arm free to balance yourself when walking on slippery or unstable surfaces.
This winter, opportunities to slip and fall will be all around you. If you are aware of the dangers and careful how you walk, you may reduce your chances of getting hurt. It also helps to understand that property owners are expected to take reasonable precautions, such as de-icing walkways, to protect you from falling.