Slips and falls are pretty common occurrences. We’ve all been there. A little stumble over a rock, a trip when you skip a step going upstairs, or even falling over a branch or rock you didn’t see.
Everyone can be a little clumsy from time to time. But falls can sometimes result in very serious injuries. Broken bones, head trauma, and fractures are just some of the unfortunate and painful results of a serious falling incident.
Regardless of whether you are in your own home, or on someone else’s property, taking steps to prevent a slip and fall injury will go a long way in avoiding the pain and difficulties that result from a slip and fall.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Always be aware of your surroundings. This is probably the most important, and most essential tip, to avoiding a slip and fall incident. There are a number of factors that could potentially be a cause for a slip and fall, both inside and outside your home. Some examples are:
- Wet conditions
- Obstructions or debris on walkways
- Damaged walk areas
- Poor lighting
While it may seem like common sense, it is very easy to get distracted and lose sight of things that are going on around you. While in your home, or on other private or public property, look around to see if there are any items lying around that you could potentially trip over. This is especially important when walking on stairs.
Weather conditions also play a huge factor in falling incidents. Take care when you go outside and watch where you are walking. Avoid areas that seem wet or slick, especially in hazardous weather conditions.
If there is an area or a pathway that you travel that you know is poorly lit, then make it a habit to take a flashlight or use your cell phone. Taking five minutes to find a flashlight may save you a lengthy hospital stay in the end.
Wear Proper Footwear
This is another tip that may seem like common sense, but can be easily overlooked. Too often, people are in a hurry and grab the first pair of shoes that they find. This is especially true for those small daily tasks—such as letting the dog out or grabbing the mail.
But while throwing on a pair of flip-flops when it is raining to take Rover out to do his business may seem like a better idea than trying to find your tennis shoes, it is ultimately a more dangerous one. Always wear proper footwear in hazardous weather conditions.
Evaluate Any Medical Risk
There medical conditions that make you more prone to suffering from a serious slip and fall injury. For example, any past injury or illness that causes weakness in your lower body, or a condition like vertigo. Regular medical evaluations can help you to stay on top of this.
If you do suffer from a condition that affects your balance, or if you take a medication that may result in drowsiness or balance issues, talk to your doctor about ways you can prevent a slip and fall injury.
Meet an Experienced Slip and Fall Attorney
For example, if you take medications that affect your balance, perhaps it would be beneficial to take them only at night before bed when you are less likely to be up and about.
If it is a condition that you are dealing with that may be the cause of your balance issue, then discuss potential solutions with your doctor that will lessen the likelihood that this condition will cause a falling incident.
If you are the victim of a slip and fall incident, it is important to seek medical attention for any injuries you may have. You may also need the assistance of a slip and fall attorney, depending on the specific circumstances of your fall. However, a little prevention and awareness can go a long way in helping to prevent this type of injury altogether.
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