I don't know about you, but I'm still struggling to adjust to the shorter days, the darker nights and the wetter, colder weather. What makes it worse as I leave my house each morning, is the streets have turned into some kind of obstacle course!
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As I shuffle into work, bleary-eyed in the dark, I not only have to negotiate the slippy, soggy fallen leaves leaves but just within the last few days - a sheet of ice has formed at the top of a hill on my route, from water cascading down from a recently flooded field, forming a tobogan-run for which I am far too ill-equipped. Especially at that time of the morning!
(Even as I write this, it's snowing, so it's going to be even worse today!)
It wouldn't take a rocket scientist to guess that at this time of the year that the risk of slips, trips and falls increases, but according to statistics from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) slips, trips and falls are the most common cause of major injuries at work and account for on average, 50% of all reported accidents to members of the public.
In the same way that we can prepare our car for the cold weather in order to prevent a Road Traffic Accident there are a few simple steps we can take to reduce our chances of a fall during cold weather.
Avoid a Nasty Slip, Trip or Fall
- Check the treads on your shoes, better treads mean better grip and less chance of slipping.
- If you use a walking aid such as a cane, stick or frame check the rubber grips on the bottom of these as they can become worn.
- Try to keep your pathway clear of leaves that can become slippery when wet.
- Keep a bag of grit, sand or salt at home for your path/driveway when the weather becomes icy.
Prevent a Slip, Trip or Fall on Your Property
You may have read one of our posts in September "Too Scared to Make a Personal Injury Compensation Claim" which told the story of a young Mum who tripped on some poorly maintained flooring and fell down some stairs. The owner of the property was liable for her fall and her resultant injuries.
In the same way, it’s your responsibility to keep your property free from hazards. Every property owner of land or buildings (be it; shop, home, office, farm or factory) has a duty to take reasonable care for the safety of visitors. This includes properly maintained grounds and clearing obstructions, so make sure you don't become liable for a slip, trip or fall injury claim by regularly checking your property for potential hazards.
Slips, Trips & Falls in Public Places
Slips are very common in public places, with indoor slips and trips often occurring due to wet floors, un-even flooring, un-cleared rubbish or poorly maintained paths. In addition, in the winter months there is also the likelihood of ice and snow to take into consideration. It is the responsibility for owners of walkways, car parks and other public places, to take reasonable care in ensuring the safety of others on the property. This includes salting or gritting icy areas and/or putting up a sign to warn people of the potential danger.Had a Slip, Trip or Fall That Wasn't Your Fault?
If you’ve been injured as the result of a slip, trip or fall in a public place and suffered an injury as a result, you may be entitled to make a claim for compensation against the property owner or local authority. We recommend speaking with one of our expert personal injury advisors as soon as possible to discuss your options. There is no charge for this service and you are under no obligation to claim with us, but it can't hurt to find out what your options are.
If You Have a Genuine Claim, Contact a Genuine Company.
May I Claim, is a trading name of R Costings Limited and our CRM number is 25770
If you’ve had an accident that wasn’t your fault and suffered an injury - you can trust us to handle your claim professionally.
Call us now on 0800 756 7774 and talk to us to find out if you have a claim - or fill in our Quick Claim form (on the right of this page).
http://info.mayiclaim.co.uk/personal_injury_compensation_claim_news/bid/248607/Top-Tips-on-Avoiding-a-Winter-Slip-Trip-or-Fall Image may be NSFW.
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Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.