I still remember my accident like it was yesterday. One minute I was driving my daughter to school and the next I was waking up in a hospital bed. It was frustrating to deal with the emotional trauma of forgetting an entire week of my life, in addition to stressing about my small child. Fortunately, we were both able to recover, but it wasn't easy walking dealing with the medical bills that accompanied the accident. I found myself struggling with things as simple as answering the phone, because I was nervous about dealing with another insurance adjuster. Fortunately, by working with a lawyer, I was able to make sense of my situation. I know that you can overcome difficult challenges too, which is why I shared my story on this website.
Working Through Emotional Trauma
This Winter, Don't Slip And Fall
Debra Hawkins
As winter arrives, you will need to be prepared for the potential falls that result from winter. In some cases, you may be able to hold an employer responsible for a slip and fall, but you will still want to avoid falls yourself because the pain and suffering of a fall can make most settlements not worth it.
Avoid Areas With Heavy Snow
Businesses should adequately shovel snow on the exterior. If you notice an area outside your workplace that has a large pile of snow, avoid walking over the snow to avoid tripping or slipping. If you do struggle to enter the building or to reach your car, and your employer had an adequate amount of time to remove snow and apply salt, you can sue for a breach of duty of care.
Use Designated Walking Areas
Only use designated walking areas. Do not try to take shortcuts. If it is not clear where you should be walking, and you walk through an area that causes you to slip and fall, this can be used as a reason to sue for your injuries.
Test Slick Areas
If you are unsure of an area is slick, test it with your boot by sliding it over the area. If the area feels slick, consider not walking across it. If there is no other option, walk slowly with your knees bent and lean slightly forward. If you fall, you will want to land on your hands and knees.
Remove Snow From Your Shoes
When you arrive inside, there should be a mat that allows you to wipe your shoes off. If not, your wet shoes could increase your chances of slipping and other visitors might track in snow that would melt and make the floor more slippery. Then, it would be the responsibility of the business owner to mop up excess water. The mats also need to be changed regularly so they remain dry and clean.
Wear The Right Shoes
Always wear the right footwear during the winter. Your shoes should have waffled or ridged soles to help you better keep your footing. If you are required to wear dress shoes, consider bringing both winter-friendly shoes and dress shoes so you can switch from one to another. While annoying, it is safer to have this inconvenience. But you can take steps to keep yourself safe, it is also the responsibility of the business owner. If you slip and fall, make sure to contact a slip and fall attorney (like those at The Law Offices of Gregg Durlofsky).
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