How to Avoid a Slip and Fall Injury This Winter

Winter in Philadelphia can be beautiful, but it also means cold temperatures, snow, and ice, which increases your chances of a slip and fall injury. However, there are many ways to avoid these common hazards to keep yourself safe. 

Tips for Avoiding a Slip and Fall this Winter

• Wear footwear with heavy treads and slip-resistant soles for increased traction. Rubber soles are the best choice. 
• Plan ahead for bad weather conditions and try not to rush anywhere or walk too quickly for the surface conditions.
• Pay attention while walking and avoid distractions such as texting or talking on the phone. Adjust how you walk according to the weather conditions—for instance, if you come upon an area with black ice, tap it with your toe before stepping down. 
• Enter buildings slowly, use mats when available, and watch for puddles or slippery floors caused by tracked in snow. 
• Refrain from taking shortcuts since it is less likely that there have been snow and ice removal services in that area. 
• Walk on cleared and well-lit pathways.
• Proceed with extra caution when getting in and out of vehicles.
• Avoid carrying items when walking, which can decrease your stability and visibility, making it more likely for you to slip and fall. 
• Take short and deliberate steps when walking by bending forward slightly and walking flat-footed so that your center of gravity is over your feet. 

What To Do if You Do Slip and Fall this Winter

A slip and fall can be frightening, and you may be in severe pain. Try to remain calm and keep the following steps in mind to protect your health and potential right to compensation: 

Call 911

After a severe slip and fall injury, call or ask someone to call 911. You will be transported to the hospital if necessary, and law enforcement will arrive to make a report. 

Document the Scene

If you are not taken to the hospital, take photos or videos of the hazardous condition that caused your fall, the surrounding area, and your injuries. The more you have to report the better your case will be.

Look for Witnesses 

Speak to anyone who witnessed your slip and fall. Ask for their contact information and if they are willing to make a short recording of what they saw on your phone. Witness statements can influence an insurance company’s decision on fault when filing a claim. 

Notify the Property Owner

If applicable, file an incident report with the property owner or manager, or at least notify them of the fall and that you are seeking medical care.

Seek Medical Care

See a doctor as soon as possible after leaving the scene. Severe injuries can have delayed symptoms, and medical records must also link your injury to the slip and fall accident. Also, make sure to consider and check in on your mental health after the injury. 

Contact an Experienced Slip and Fall Attorney

A Philadelphia Slip and Fall Lawyer can help you determine whether a party can be held liable, will gather evidence to support your claim, and will handle every aspect of your case for you.