Duncan Lewis are looking forward to Christmas and the New Year, as we are sure you are too. We wanted to offer some advice in order to help keep you safe over the holidays. As personal injury solicitors, New Year and Christmas is one of our busiest times as it can often mean people take risks that they normally would not.
1. Road Traffic Accidents
With the festive season comes an increased danger whilst driving. As the nights get darker and the roads become icier, it becomes more important to be vigilant. Aside from the inherent risks that come with the change in weather, it is also the season where many people travel all over the country to visit friends and family. Long journeys can lead to fatigue whilst driving – if you feel tired, never risk the journey. The visits to family and friends may include the consumption of alcohol. Drink driving destroys many lives during this period and it is something that can easily be avoided. A second drink doubles your chances of causing an accident so do not take the chance, be sensible.
2. Slips and Trips
As roads and pavements turn into temporary ice rinks, especially early in the morning when everybody makes their way to work; local councils make every effort to spread grit salt as there are often areas that become dangerously icy. Slipping can cause serious injuries and it is best to avoid these areas where possible.
3. Accidents at work
The office Christmas tree is out again and you have been given the responsibility of decorating it. Do not try putting the star on the top of the tree by standing on a swivel chair, or climbing on the shelves. Also, no matter how much you want to create makeshift decorations for your desk, misusing office equipment can lead to nasty injuries.
4. Product Liability
This is a minefield during Christmas, with dangerous wiring on your Christmas lights, defective toys and faulty gadgets – there are plenty of hazards to look out for. If you notice the wiring on your lights looks a little unsafe, buy new lights – do not risk being burnt or suffering an electric shock by hanging them up. Before you buy toys for the children, take some time to check that they meet basic safety requirements.
5. Sports Injuries
As soon as the Christmas season starts, ice skating rinks start to pop up everywhere. Although it is impossible for most to stay on their feet whilst on the ice, there are often injuries that could have been prevented had the organisers managed the rink properly. They can become overcrowded, boots may be unsafe to use or the ice may not have been resurfaced regularly enough. In any event, make sure you wear gloves and hats for some added protection from the trips and falls.
So wrap up warm and look after yourselves this Christmas, and be sure to contact us if an unexpected accident occurs.
Author Matthew Smith is a trainee solicitor at Duncan Lewis. He works in the Personal Injury department who ensure high quality representation in your personal injury claim at all levels. Duncan Lewis’ Accident and Injury Lawyers also provide access to the best doctors and medical specialists for clients making a personal injury compensation claim – and Duncan Lewis personal injury solicitors offer a friendly and professional service, placing you and your family’s best interests first throughout the claims process. For advice on an all aspects of personal injury queries do not hesitate to call our specialist lawyers on 0333 772 0409.
