Posted: February 19, 2018
February is, statistically, the worst month of winter – the coldest and the snowiest. In Omaha, we know very well that winter can be a difficult, dangerous time, especially for pedestrians. One of the biggest dangers in winter is the threat of slip and fall accidents.
Our slip and fall lawyers have seen just how devastating these accidents can be. Slip and falls are serious – innocent victims can suffer broken bones and significant back injuries as the result of a slip and fall.
As such, prevention is key. Taking steps to prevent slip and falls before they occur can save you a lot of pain, suffering and unnecessary expense.
How to Keep Yourself Safe During Winter
The good news about slip and falls, to the extent there is any, is that these accidents have been a perpetual problem. And that means we have a pretty clear sense of how you can minimize the risk of suffering a slip and fall.
Here are a few tips for preventing slip and fall accidents:
- Proper footwear: If it's cold, snowy and icy, make sure you're wearing shoes that are appropriate for the weather. Your shoes are like the tires on your car – invaluable in helping you keep a firm footing. Make sure your shoes have slip-resistant soles – rubber is an excellent material for this.
- Mind your step: While snow and ice can be treacherous, that doesn't mean they can't be defeated. When walking in bad winter weather, lean slightly forward and take short steps. Walk as flat-footed as possible. And take it slow – there's no need to rush in this weather.
- Be observant: In pleasant weather, you can mostly walk confidently, without worrying too much about the ground under your feet. When the ground is treacherous, however, that's not quite the case. Keep your eyes on the ground in front of you, and look ahead. Careful observance can help you catch even the subtlest of black ice patches.
Realistically, walking in bad winter weather really comes down to this – take your time and be careful. That will go a long way toward keeping you safe.
Of course, our slip and fall lawyers are well aware that you can do everything right and still suffer a slip and fall accident that could have been prevented through better vigilance on the part of a property owner. You have the right to a reasonable expectation of safety when you're legally on another party's property. Certain property owners have an obligation to clear their walkways of snow and ice and to provide proper lighting and safety precautions.
As such, our firm is committed to helping victims like you pursue justice and compensation for your injuries.
If you need an experienced slip and fall lawyer in the Omaha, Nebraska area, please call Copple, Rockey, & Schlecht, P.C., L.L.O today at 402-371-4300 for a consultation.
