Winter weather took its first swipe at Pennsylvania last week, and days after the storm, residents are still struggling to remove snow and ice. The temperatures have remained below freezing for several days, and some people are desperate to get out of their driveways and get back to routine. Many people may have made a grocery store or restaurant their first stop, and they should be aware of recent slip-and-falls research as they shop in icy weather conditions.
Slip-and-falls defendants often try to blame victim
Pennsylvania shoppers are in the midst of the busiest retail weeks of the year. The holiday season is traditionally a time when people venture out for more than just household necessities. Many people have occasions to give gifts, or perhaps are shopping for a new home appliance or vehicle, as big ticket items are usually on sale in December. With so many people in and out of stores, the often wet and icy weather can lead to an increase in slip-and-falls.
Jobs where slip and fall accidents are abundant
Slip and fall accidents are one of the most common work injuries in the United States. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), there were nearly 600 deaths and over 47,000 serious injuries from falls in the workplace in 2013.
Slip-and-falls reported at one of the nation's largest retailers
Shopping is a routine experience for most Pennsylvania residents. Sometimes a large store, such as Wal-Mart, can be a convenient place to go, since they carry nearly every item one might need for the members of their households. Though certainly shopping is not considered to be a particularly dangerous activity, there is always the potential for serious injury, including the risk for slip-and-falls.
