With Thanksgiving and the holiday season right around the corner, the Chicago personal injury lawyers at Steinberg, Goodman & Kalish want to provide safety tips to help you and your family stay safe this holiday season.
- Drive cautiously. Most Americans travel for the holidays, with many of them doing so by car. Given that weather conditions can be less than ideal in many parts of country during the holidays, it is important that drivers follow certain winter driving rules, such as reducing speed, braking gently to avoid skidding, always using headlights, maintaining a clean and clear windshield, and avoiding the use of cruise control. Motorists can prepare for winter holiday travel by checking the vehicle’s battery, tire treat, windshield wipers, washer fluid levels, and antifreeze. Always wear a seat belt and avoid texting, emailing or talking on a cell phone while driving.
- Remember fire prevention strategies. Keep candles away from decorations and other combustible materials, and do not use candles to decorate Christmas trees. Choose decorations made with flame-resistant, flame-retardant and non-combustible materials.
- Use a safe ladder. Falls continue to be a leading cause of unintentional injury deaths across the country, with 43% of fatal falls in the last decade involving a ladder. When putting up holiday decorations, always use a proper ladder; do not stand on chairs, desks, or other furniture. If a ladder is placed near a doorway, make sure to lock the door so that no one opens the door and knocks you off the ladder.
- Clear walkways of snow and ice. Snow and ice can make it more difficult to get around on foot, as well. As a result, slip and fall accidents are relatively common during winter months. Slip and fall injuries can involve wrist fractures, hip fractures, and head injuries. Pedestrians should take their time when walking, and take slower and shorter steps. Make sure to wear boots or footwear with rubber tread for traction, and exercise extreme caution when walking on the side of the road during and after a snowstorm since unshoveled sidewalks and slippery roads can increase the risk of a pedestrian auto accident.
The Chicago accident and injury lawyers at Steinberg, Goodman & Kalish are dedicated to promoting safety and protecting the rights of accident and injury victims. If you were injured in a personal injury accident, contact Steinberg, Goodman & Kalish at (312) 782-1386 to schedule a free consultation with one of our Chicago accident lawyers. Additional Information:
- Winter Weather Injuries: Car Accidents and More
- Halloween Safety Tips
- Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer
Steinberg Goodman & Kalish (www.sgklawyers.com) is dedicated to protecting victims and their families. We handle medical malpractice, product liability, personal injury, wrongful death, auto accidents, professional negligence, birth trauma, and railroad law matters. Contact us at (888) 325-7299 or (312) 445-9084.
