JENKINTOWN PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

Remember when you looked forward to snowstorms? A heavy snow meant a day off from school. You couldn’t wait to join your friends for snowball fights and sledding. As you grew up, snow became a hassle. A snow day meant shoveling the driveway and braving icy roads. Now that you are older, winter weather brings a whole new set of dangers. You know that even a minor fall on an icy sidewalk could cause a serious injury.

This unusually brutal winter has brought an abundance of snow and ice, increasing the likelihood of a slip and fall accident, leading to injuries. There are ways to be prepared for this unwelcome danger.

12 Tips to Help Allentown Seniors Avoid Wintertime Slip and Falls

• Practice healthy habits. Eat well, get regular exercise and drink plenty of water. If you feel your best, you’ll be less likely to fall.
• Discuss your medications with your doctor. Some medicines can cause dizziness or vision changes. The take all your medications as directed, but let your doctor know about any side effects that could make you more likely to fall.
• Check the weather forecast. You don’t want to get caught out in freezing rain or heavy snow. If you have an appointment, try to reschedule.
• Wear weather-appropriate shoes. Your shoes should fit well, have low heels and good traction. If you use a cane, choose one with a non-slip rubber tip to prevent slips.
• Allow extra time to get to your destination. You are less likely to be careful if you are in a hurry.
• Walk carefully. Take small, deliberate steps.
• Use handrails. Handrails are great for preventing slips. Use them on stairs and whenever they are available.
• Use sand or cat litter for extra traction. Salt bags can be difficult to move. If you can’t salt your own walkway, use kitty litter or sand to add traction and prevent falls. This isn’t a permanent solution, but it can help until someone can clear the ice for you.
• Use doormats. Wet shoes can cause you to slip on your floors. Place a mat on either side of your door. The inside mat should be absorbent enough to dry your shoes as you come inside.
• Avoid large loads. Keep your hands free so you can hold on to a railing or grab some support if you fall. When possible, ask for help carrying your bags.
• Ask for help. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
• Be prepared. Make sure your emergency numbers are stored in your phone. Take your cell phone with you when you go out.

If you’re injured in a Philadelphia slip and fall, you may be eligible for compensation. To learn more, please contact Mednick, Mezyk & Kredo, P.C., at 888-807-9675.