Slips and falls are the number one cause of personal injury accidents in hotels, restaurants and public buildings. Injury Lawyers know that the culprit is most often unsafe surfaces rather than clumsy people.
Even though falls account for a huge number of fractures among people over the age of 65, a slip and fall injury can happen to anyone at any age. Each winter, walking around our own Calgary streets, walkways and neighbourhoods, we are amazed to see the number of business and homeowners that don’t take the necessary steps to prevent slip and falls: not salting, sanding, or shoveling, or making it safe for others.
Scary, right?
Everyone is susceptible to losing their balance and ending up on their back. Follow these 6 steps to minimize the chance of that happening and keep you from needing to contact a Personal Injury Lawyer:
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Wear proper footwear.
When conditions are nasty, wear something with rubber, non-slip soles. This could be a good pair of boots or if you’re one of those people who wear shoes no matter the weather, even athletic shoes are ok on ice and snow. If you work somewhere that calls for high heels or dress shoes, take them with you and put them on after you get to your desk.
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Look for parking spots that are already cleared.
Find an area that has been recently shoveled/plowed and has been treated with salt, sand, or fine gravel – anything that can provide better traction will help you keep your footing.
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Wear gloves and keep your hands at your side.
So many people choose not to wear gloves, and instead put their hands in their pockets. Don’t do it! It not only throws off your balance, it makes it harder to catch yourself if you slip or to brace for an impact if you fall. Also, avoid carrying a large number of items at once; make two trips if needed. And always use handrails if they’re there.
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Stay the course. Walk on designated paths.
Don’t wander off in an area you’re not familiar with or take shortcuts. More than likely, those areas haven’t been cleared or treated. Be careful when getting out of cars or crossing the street; roads are more prone to black ice.
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Check the weather forecast prior to going out for the day.
With apps, now you don’t even have to listen to the radio or watch the news to know the conditions and prepare accordingly.
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Lastly, remember this: Ice and snow? Take it slow!
You can reduce your risk of slipping and falling just by reducing your speed and taking smaller steps.
