Cold weather will soon be here. And with it comes snow and ice, both of which can contribute to a catastrophic slip and fall accident. If you live in Pennsylvania, here are some cold-weather safety tips that may help you prevent a slip and fall accident from occurring.
Wear Winter Shoes or Boots
If you do not have good shoes that provide stability and grip on snow and ice, your chances of experiencing a slip and fall accident that causes injuries are greater. To reduce your risk, always wear shoes that are designed for winter weather, like snow boots. If you work in an office where snow boots are not an appropriate choice, bring a pair of work shoes, but wear your snow boots when walking through the parking lot.
Keep Your Hands Free
Keeping your hands free when walking on snow and ice — or other potentially slippery surfaces — can help prevent an accident by improving your balance and providing you with a method of grabbing onto something and catching yourself if you do slip. Carrying heavy items can interfere with your stability and prevents you from using handrails when walking up and down stairs.
Slow Down
Even if you are in a hurry to get to your destination due to time constraints or cold, know that the more that you hurry, the greater your risk of a slip and fall. Instead, slow your pace and take shorter steps to improve your traction.
Clear Driveways and Walkways
When it is cold out, few enjoy grabbing the shovel to remove snow. However, not only is removing snow and ice your duty as a property owner, but it also can help to prevent a slip and fall accident experienced by you, a family member or another individual. If you are a business owner or manager, make sure parking lots and walkways are kept free from snow and ice.
Exercise Caution When Entering and Exiting a Vehicle
When entering and exiting your vehicle, take your time and tread carefully. Black ice can be deceiving; just because a surface does not look slippery does not mean it is not. Take your time when getting out of your car and do not just assume that the ground beneath your feet is safe.
Contact an Attorney for Questions About Liability
Even when you exercise caution, know that it is the property owner who has a responsibility to keep the property safe and free from hazards, such as snow and ice. If you have experienced a slip and fall on another person’s property, reach out to a personal injury attorney to learn more about who might be held liable. At Cordisco & Saile LLC, our attorneys want to discuss your slip and fall accident in more detail today. Call us now at 215-642-2335 or fill out our online contact form.
