The holidays can mean many things; it is a time for joyful moments with your family and friends but can also be overwhelming and stressful. The holidays bring overcrowded roadways and shopping centers, as well as families rushing around for last minute gifts. These hectic conditions lead to common accidents and injuries.
Unfortunately, people are more prone to an accident during this time of year than others. Hospitals treat more patients from October to January than any other season; from drunk driving accidents to parking lot injuries, the holidays can certainly be a dangerous time for all.
Car Accidents and Road Safety
Car accidents happen every day, but with the increased volume of cars on the roadways during the holidays, including parking lots and non-rush hour traffic, a driver must be extra careful and focused. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more fatal car accidents occur during these months than any other time.
Always be mindful of other drivers on the road; drivers behind the wheel for a long time can be tired and lose concentration. Drunk drivers also pose a threat to one’s safety, particularly the night before Thanksgiving where bars are the busiest. Car accidents pertain to pedestrians as well; people do not always pay attention when walking back to their car, which means you have to be attentive behind the wheel.
It is also a good idea to have your vehicle checked, with your battery and fluids well maintained. A drop in temperature lowers the efficiency of your battery, and with the amount of traffic you will be in, your car could be at risk. Have an emergency roadside kit with you when you travel and check your tire pressure to make sure you are safe before heading out.
Kitchen Injuries
The kitchen can be a very dangerous place, especially while preparing for family meals. Home fires happen more frequently during the holidays than any other time of year, and the source of fire usually stems from the kitchen. The emergency rooms at hospitals are usually filled with people accidentally cutting themselves severely or being treated for burns from the stove or oven. Even food poisoning can be an issue; it is reasonable that poultry or any other meat can go undercooked when someone is rushing around the kitchen. If you are cooking, clean up often to prevent slip and falls, and do not be afraid to ask someone to help you if you need help managing.
Weather-Related Injuries
It is easy to lose awareness of your surroundings with the hustle of the holiday season. With the amount of merchandise on store shelves, be aware that something can easily fall on you. Wet leaves or snow from the outside can also make the floors slippery in stores.
Delaware County Personal Injury Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Help Those Injured in Accidents During the Holiday Season
If you were injured in an accident because of someone else’s negligence, then contact the Delaware County personal injury lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. Our experienced and knowledgeable lawyers will obtain the maximum compensation you rightfully deserve. Call us today at 610-565-3701 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.