Slip and Fall Facts in Autumn in Chester County
Next to the Winter Season, with its snow and ice, individuals living in PA can experience more slips and falls than in the warmer months. This is especially true in the Fall.
The wet leaves that litter the ground, as well as grass, soil, and roadways after rain, can indeed cause slippery conditions. Add to this the fact that fog is apparent in the Fall throughout much of PA.
While everyone runs the risk of falling in this season of diminishing light and more slippery outside conditions, the CDC (Center for Disease Control) has documented that most of the more serious injuries, such as broken bones and TBIs (Traumatic Brain Injuries), do occur in the elderly population, as defined by those 65 years of age or older.
The CDC has also documented that billions of dollars are lost to falls in seniors, and hundreds of thousands of serious injuries occur. As individuals are living longer now and are more active, the number of serious falls among seniors has increased since 2015.
Why Do Falls Occur Outdoors During the Fall Season?
Although falls do occur with seniors indoors, outdoor falls during the Fall are less controllable. Indoors, handrails and guardrails can be effective in fall prevention.
This is not always the case outdoors. Although the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) does maintain indoor standards for property owners or loved ones of a senior, this does not apply to all outdoor activities.
Although TBIs occur frequently, the major risk for seniors while on a walk or even job outside during the Fall season is generally broken hips or other broken bones, again according to the CDC.
Ways to Avoid Falling Outdoors During the Fall
Due diligence is needed by seniors to prevent outdoor falls in the beautiful, colorful season of Fall. Many are drawn outdoors by the cooler temperatures and the breathtaking splendor of changing colors. Practicing safety is important, however.
· Be aware of all surroundings
While it is nice to enjoy all the scenery, seniors who tread on wet grass or pavements or walkways filled with dead leaves increase their chances of slips and falls. It is just too easy to get caught up in the outdoor beauty.
· Ensure that all medical conditions are taken into account
Individuals with MS (Multiple Sclerosis), any type of arthritis, or vision problems need to adjust their speed of walking and take into account any balance issues that come with a medical condition.
· Use any assistive devices necessary
If a cane or walker is supplied by a medical provider, using this can prevent falls on wet leaves, in roadways where the slope is uneven, or even when a pothole might exist. Glasses, if prescribed, should always be worn.
Seniors are proud, and unfortunately, many can be “fit as a fiddle” and still need assistive devices but not use them. The NIH (National Institute of Health) has documented this in its latest publication abstract.
The abstract also focuses on new methodologies of technology that can be assistive in nature without being as cumbersome (and somewhat embarrassing) for older individuals, such as the usual canes, crutches, and walkers.
· Drive and walk early in the day
Although the focus of this article is the slips and falls when outside of a vehicle, eventually, if driving, a senior must get in and out of a vehicle. When on slippery ground, the slips and falls can increase while entering and exiting a vehicle.
Duty of Care in Slips and Falls in the Autumn
The Duty of Care does apply to commercial residences such as rental properties, stores, and other types of commercial buildings, including healthcare facilities.
The ADA requirements do require a handicapped ramp, and handicapped parking facilities are in place. This is not an option; it is a requirement and must be followed to the letter.
Any slip and Fall that occurs when these requirements are not followed by commercial properties generally can be a negligence case, as the property owners must keep the premises not only handicapped accessible but also free of all slippery debris such as leaves and wet grass.
Summary—Duty of Care in Slips and Falls Facts in Autumn in Chester County
Not all falls are preventable, but many are with just a few precautionary measures. While many lead to TBIs and broken bones, it is wise to consult an attorney such as Christian J. Hoey, ESQ of Paoli, PA, as soon as a slip or Fall occurs.
A free consultation is available, and a team of experts, including medical experts, exists to assist in bringing a slip-and-fall negligence case to fruition.
Studies also show that many individuals do not report slips and falls immediately, and this should be avoided as a negligence case needs to be documented ASAP.
Dialing 911 or going to an emergency room immediately is always recommended. Mr. Hoey should also be the next step in documentation, and a phone call is always welcome.
Please call at 610-647-5151 or 1-888-Go-Hoey1.
Enjoy the Autumn, but do it safely!