The holidays are always a busy time when distractions increase – and so do the risks for incurring a personal injury. Littman & Babiarz, a personal injury law firm in Ithaca and Auburn, NY, wants you to be aware of the unique personal injury hazards that the holidays can bring. We wish everyone a safe and healthy holiday season.
Burn Accidents
Holiday décor and celebrations often include candles. Interior décor and furnishings made dry through artificial heat and lit candles are a ready prescription for fire. Replace those lit candles with battery-powered plastic ones to keep your celebrations, loved ones and property safe this holiday season.
The holidays also increase special gatherings where cooking is a must. Be sure to observe safe cooking and baking practices this season while in the kitchen. Here are some suggestions:
- Avoid loose clothing that can contact hot surfaces.
- Keep a fire extinguisher handy in the kitchen or near the outdoor grill.
- Never throw water on a grease fire. Instead, cover the fire if possible with a pot lid.
- Keep children at least three feet away from all hot surfaces and ovens.
- Keep a clean and uncluttered work area when cooking. Unplug and store any appliances that are not in use.
- Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working and have new batteries.
Trip & Fall Accidents
The holidays bring great opportunities for decorating, but more items on the floor or along the wall can mean a higher risk for trip and fall accidents. Extra electric cords, floor décor or other items that cause a room to become crowded are prime causes of fall injuries. Lowered holiday lighting can also contribute to trip and fall accidents by making obstacles harder to see and avoid.
Be sure to keep your floor and walkways clear and free from unnecessary obstructions. Secure electric cords along a wall and out of the way if at all possible. If you are planning to entertain guests, you may also want to secure rugs that could present trip hazards to those unfamiliar with your home. Make sure gifts stay underneath the tree and to not protrude out into walkways where they can trip an unwary family member or guest.
Vehicle Accidents
The holidays usually mean extra travel to visit with family and friends, and this means more distracted traffic on the roadways. Vehicle accidents increase through the holiday season each year, robbing the joy and merriment from far too many homes. Take extra precautions if you plan to travel for the holidays. Practice the rules of defensive driving and never travel when you are tired, intoxicated, taking medications or otherwise not at your best.
Littman & Babiarz, personal injury lawyers in Ithaca, Syracuse and Auburn, NY, are here to provide legal advice and representation if you suffer a personal injury accident through the holiday season. Pursuing a claim for compensation can provide the necessary funds to cover unexpected medical expenses, loss of wages and other negative results from a personal injury accident. Call us today to review your possible personal injury claim.