Kids are back in school, the days are getting shorter, and stores are stocked with Halloween candy. It’s Fall in Minnesota, and as the weather starts to cool down, that word—fall—can take on another, more painful meaning.
That’s because slip-and-fall injuries tend to be very common this time of year. To help you and your family stay safe as you’re out there enjoying the beauty of the season, we’ve put together a list of some of the common hazards to watch out for.
Slippery Leaves Cause Falls
Those beautiful red, yellow, and orange leaves flutter down from their trees, covering walking surfaces and obscuring irregularities you would usually sidestep with ease. Leaves make it tough to see what you’re walking on, plus they tend to cover cracks or hide uneven surfaces, all of which can lead to a trip-and-fall accident. Take your time and slow down if you’re running or walking on the leaf-covered ground.
Fall usually brings a good amount of rain, and when it does the leaves get wet and become slippery. A false step on wet leaves can take your feet out from underneath you, just as if you were walking on snow and ice. Be cautious when walking on other people’s property and clean the leaves from your own driveway and sidewalks so you don’t face liability if someone falls around your house.
They’re Also Hazards On the Road
Changing seasons bring new things to watch for on the road, too. For one, those leaves we just talked about? They can coat the road, particularly on residential roads and side streets that don’t get heavy traffic. If the leaves are wet, they make it easy for cars to skid if you’re going too fast. Autumn rains can also lead water to pool on top of oil on the road, leading to a very slick condition that makes for longer braking distances.
Less Visibility for Everyone
Fall’s shorter days mean pedestrians and drivers alike should be more aware of their surroundings. If you’re walking or biking, make sure you are looking for cars and taking proper precautions. If you’re driving, keep an eye out for those bikers and walkers. Also, if you park your car outside, take a few minutes to clean leaves off your windshield before driving off; you’d be surprised how a few leaves can stick and block your vision.
Early Snow and Frost Add to the Problem
Fall in Minnesota can sometimes mean snow, and it definitely means a few frosty mornings. We always see news reports of chaos on the roads the first day it snows. Just remember to slow down, give longer following distances, and give yourself more time to get from Point A to Point B.
If Something Does Happen…
Hopefully, now you’re aware of a few things to watch for to stay safe this fall. But, if something happens and you do get hurt due to an unsafe condition on someone else’s property, the lawyers of White & Associates are here for you. Call 763-241-0477 to speak with a Minnesota personal injury attorney any time.
