Slip and Fall Injuries Common in Autumn
Author: Auger Law | November 13th, 2015
When most people think of slips and falls and a specific season, they think of winter. It’s important to know that there are two major culprits of slip and fall injuries surrounding us right now. Firmly into autumn, leaves are falling and daylight is reduced. Either of these things can greatly heighten your chance of a slip and fall injury. Here’s how.
Leaves
Not only are leaves coating the ground and making it difficult to see what we are walking on, but they can fill holes, dents and divots. If you are walking on unfamiliar sidewalks, consider carrying a walking stick or some type of pole. Tap the ground in front of you as you walk to find uneven areas before you twist your ankle walking over them.
Wet leaves can also be dangerous. In fact, wet leaves can be as dangerous as ice. Wet leaves are also difficult to rake. The safest thing you can do is to clear leaves from your walks and driveways as soon as possible.
Lighting
With daylight savings time, you may be faced with glaring sunlight directly in your eyes as you drive to and from work. Grab a good pair of sunglasses and use your sun visors. Sun in your eyes can make it almost impossible to see what is in front of your car as you drive.
You will also find that autumn brings with it reduced visibility as day time is shorter. Businesses and home owners may not have prepared well. This can cause lighting to be insufficient where you walk. Be careful on sidewalks, stairways and decks. If you can’t see where you are walking, walk more carefully to prevent falls.
As a home owner, be sure that your own property is ready for fall. Regularly rake leaves as they fall. Make sure that all of your exterior lights are in working order and if they aren’t, be sure to get them repaired. Any cracks or breaks in your concrete or blacktop should be mended before the snow falls. Take a walk around your property and perform general maintenance as necessary. Doing these things will help to ensure your safety and that of others during the fall season.
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, a personal injury attorney can help you get the compensation you may be entitled to by law. Contact our offices today for a free review of your case. We will help you get any compensation that you are due. Call now.
