Steps You Can Take to Keep Yourself as Safe as Possible
There are many ways that New Jersey’s winter weather can increase your risk of personal injury: slip-and-falls on snow and ice, motor vehicle accidents on icy or snowy roads, or exposure to power lines downed by heavy ice or snow. Though you can never fully prevent the risk of injuries caused by the carelessness or negligence of another person, there are measures you can take to reduce the risk during winters in New Jersey.
Injuries from Slip-and-Falls
When it comes to black ice, snow-covered ice, or ice-covered snow, it can be difficult to anticipate your footing, and you can hit the ground in an instant. A fall on a sidewalk or steps can lead to serious injury, including broken bones, traumatic brain injury, or neck/spinal cord trauma. To minimize the risk of a slip-and-fall,
- make certain you have appropriate footwear—rubber soled shoes with good tread;
- expect tasks to take longer—don’t be in a hurry;
- take shorter strides to help you maintain balance, and take one step at a time on outdoor stairs;
- have salt or sand near steps or sidewalks and use liberally.
Injuries in Motor Vehicle Accidents
Snow and ice change everything about handling a motor vehicle. You may not be able to accelerate or stop as quickly, and you’ll need to be careful when turning a corner, as it can be easy to fishtail.
- Make certain you have good tires on your car, designed for the winter weather.
- Always clean off your car before you get on the road.
- Keep your windshield washer reservoir full with a solution that won’t freeze.
- Make certain you’ve done all necessary maintenance.
- Add a car length or two between you and the vehicle in front of you.
- Lower your speed.
Contact Howard D. Popper, P.C.
At Howard D. Popper, P.C., we can help protect your rights. For a free initial consultation to discuss your options after a winter-weather-related injury, contact our office online or call 973-993-8787 to set up an appointment. We have offices in Morristown and Newton. Currently, all our client communications are by phone, text message, or online videoconference.
We handle all personal injury claims on a contingent-fee basis. You won’t pay any attorney fees unless we recover damages for your losses.