Summertime in Georgia: Slip and Fall Risks

Summertime is a beautiful time of year, but it can also be a dangerous time. With the rainy season beginning and puddles on the rise, there is an increased risk for slip and falls in Georgia. Today, we’re here to discuss slip and fall accidents. We will look at the risk factors, provide tips on how to stay safe during this summer season, and let you know what to do if you fall down and get hurt in a store, government building, or private residence.

 

Dangers of Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can be dangerous, and they often result in serious injuries. People who slip frequently face the possibility of dangers like these:

• Falling and hitting your head. This is one of the most common types of injuries from a slip and fall accident.
• Broken bones. Falls can cause serious fractures, which can take a long time to heal.
• Severe cuts and lacerations. These can often lead to infection if not treated properly.
• Musculoskeletal injuries. These can include strains, sprains, and ruptured discs.

All of these injuries can require extensive medical treatment, including surgery, hospitalization, and physical therapy. In some cases, injuries from a fall may even lead to permanent disability. That’s why it’s so important to take steps to reduce your risk of slipping and falling during summertime.

 

Risks to Avoid this Summer

It’s not always easy to avoid slipping or falling, but there are some common risks to avoid. Stay alert for the following conditions and reduce your likelihood of getting hurt in a slip and fall accident:

Slippery Surfaces: One of the biggest risks during summertime is slipping on wet surfaces. This can happen when walking on sidewalks that have not been properly cleared of snow and ice, or when walking in puddles. It is important to be aware of these dangers and take caution while walking outdoors.

Damaged Walkways: Another risk for slip and falls during summertime is damaged sidewalks. After a long winter, many sidewalks may be cracked or structurally unsound. This can make it difficult to travel safely, especially if the sidewalk is wet. Be sure to watch out for any damage on the sidewalks near you and avoid walking on them if possible.

Surface Hazards and Obstructions: While the trees are still growing late spring and early summertime buds, some sidewalks and paths may still be covered in fallen leaves and other debris from winter. Surface hazards and walkway obstructions can cause you to trip and fall. This time of year, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid walking in areas that are not clear.

 

How to Avoid Slip and Fall Accidents

Summer is a great time of year to get out of the house. It’s also peak puddle season, when lots of rain can lead to extra slippery surfaces in store and business lobbies, on sidewalks, and in parks. With a little caution, you can enjoy summer without worrying about slip and fall accidents.

To stay safe and avoid fall injuries, follow these tips:

• Be aware of your surroundings. When it’s raining, be especially careful on wet surfaces. If you’re walking in a park or other public place, watch out for puddles and mud.
• Wear shoes that have a good grip. Flip-flops might be cute and comfortable during Summer in Georgia, but they’re not ideal for avoiding slips and falls. Shoes with good treads will help you keep your footing on wet surfaces.
• Take it slow. If you can, try to avoid running or walking quickly in the rain. This will help you maintain better balance and avoid potential slip and fall accidents.
• Pay attention to slip and fall risks in stores and businesses. Slippery surfaces should be clearly marked with visible warnings so customers are aware of dangerous conditions. Failure to post these could be negligence.
• Be especially careful around damaged sidewalks. After a tough winter, many sidewalks are still damaged from salt and ice. Be on the lookout for uneven surfaces and broken pavement that could lead to a fall.
• If you do fall, try to relax and let your body roll with the fall. This tactic could help minimize potential injuries.

Wet weather isn’t the only way you could end up falling down after winter has come and gone—damage from fluctuating temperatures and salt used on icy sidewalks can create holes that are difficult to see without proper lighting.

Try walking in the center of sidewalks whenever possible, rather than along a wall or railing where there may be more debris on the ground. Be careful when walking near construction sites as well–there might be holes in the sidewalk that you can’t see!

The best way for pedestrians to protect themselves is by staying aware of their surroundings at all times. Always stay alert as you walk around town during summertime, especially if there was heavy precipitation recently or it gets dark early in your area this time of year. Make sure you look where you’re walking so you can avoid hazards or puddles, and be on the lookout for damaged sidewalks.

 

What to Do if You Get Hurt in a Slip and Fall Accident

Wondering what to do if you happen to fall down and get hurt this summer? Follow these steps to protect your health and have the best chance at recovering damages.

1. It’s important to take care of yourself and seek medical attention right away if necessary. After you have a slip and fall accident on someone else’s property, try to assess your injuries before attempting to get up. This may help avoid making injuries worse. If necessary, call 911 to request medical attention on-site
2. Once you’re safe, our legal team recommends taking photos of the incident scene to document any anomalies, like standing water, broken concrete, poorly maintained flooring, obstacles, or other hazards that may have contributed to your fall.
3. If your injury after a fall is minor, you may be able to treat it at home with over-the-counter pain medication and ice packs. But it’s important to make sure your injuries aren’t more serious, especially if you sustained a head injury. Speak with a doctor to document your injuries and symptoms as soon as possible.

Head and neck injuries may not be immediately apparent. In fact, some symptoms may not show up for several days, or even weeks after your accident. That’s why it’s important to seek professional treatment and get a medical evaluation immediately after any injury or fall.

 

Common Injuries from Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall injuries can be minor or severe, with short-term or lifelong consequences. From traumatic brain injuries (TBI) to twisted ankles, the result of falling can be expensive and painful. 

Common injuries from slip and fall cases include:

• Head injuries
• Neck and back injuries
• Hip injuries
• Broken bones
• Sprains and strains

No matter how careful we are as pedestrians, sometimes accidents just happen. But sometimes, accidents are the direct result of another person or party’s negligent actions or reckless behaviors.

 

Consequences of Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents can cause a lot of pain, suffering, and financial stress. From expensive medical bills to extensive therapy plans, the financial and mental costs can be high. Don’t pay for someone else’s negligent or reckless actions!

After an accident, contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to begin the insurance claims process. Depending on the severity of your injuries and their long-term impacts, you might be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

You shouldn’t have to pay for other people’s mistakes. An expert lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and seek justice on your behalf.

 

Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney in Cobb County, Georgia