The winter months typically bring a noticeable spike in the number of personal injury claims. Car accidents and slip and fall accidents are more likely to occur during this time of year, making it important to take proper precautions to ensure your safety. Our firm has collected a short list of steps that can help keep you safe this coming winter.
Watch Where You Step
As the snow falls, so do people. If you are walking up outdoor steps, stepping off a curb, or walking on icy ground, it is imperative that you watch your step to avoid a nasty fall. Wear shoes that give you the greatest amount of traction on slick surfaces and keep your vision sharp. Taking slower, shorter steps can help you keep you balance. If snow or sleet begins to accumulate on your home’s porch, steps, or walkways, make sure you frequently apply ice melting granules to keep your paths clear.
Drive Defensively
While the holiday season is usually a time of family fun and festivities, this time of year also brings out a larger proportion of drunk drivers on the roads. For this reason, it is imperative that you stay aware of your surroundings when driving. Anticipate hazards before they occur, and always be prepared to react to another driver’s mistake. Stay focused on the road by eliminating distractions such as smart phones and loud music. While it is impossible to control the actions of a drunk driver, increasing your awareness can help reduce your chances of an accident.
Use Tire Chains if Necessary
If you live in a particularly snowy area, it is crucial that you equip your car’s tires with chains. Sometimes referred to as “snow chains,” these devices boost your vehicle’s ability to maintain a grip on snowy roads. Make sure they are tightly secured, and keep your speed under 30 miles per hour.
While these tips can help minimize your chances of injury, we all know that life can be unpredictable. If you should suffer an injury this winter, a Columbus personal injury lawyer from Rourke and Blumenthal LLC can examine your situation and help you pursue compensation for your suffering. With more than 75 years of successful experience, we are confident that we can help you get through this difficult time. To get started, request a free case evaluation online or call our office today at (614) 321-3212!