When we think of hazardous weather in the Northeast, our thoughts naturally turn to winter snow and ice. But slips and falls are not limited to the winter months. Autumn, with all its beauty, carries hidden hazards for pedestrians and motorists alike. 

With the waning of summer come shorter daylight hours, more precipitation, cooler temperatures, and the greater likelihood of black ice on walkways and pavement surfaces. Add the complication of slippery wet leaves, and it comes as no surprise that these seasonal changes bring an increase in automobile accidents and slip and fall incidents.

In addition to physical and emotional pain and suffering, individuals injured in fall down incidents (as well as vehicle accidents) not only experience pain and suffering, but incur actual out-of-pocket costs. In Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire, medical expenses alone for a single incident average between $37,000 and $45,000.^[1] Sadly, falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths for older adults with approximately 38,000 deaths annually^[2] for individuals over the age of 65.

And, when it comes to vehicle accidents, the National Safety Council reports that October has one of the highest rates of fatal car accidents in the United States.^[3] Without a knowledgeable law firm with experience in helping individuals obtain compensation for weather-related accidents, victims are left to shoulder those costs alone.

Seasonal weather changes often contribute to pedestrian and motor vehicle accidents. Consider slick roadways or parking lot surfaces from wet leaves or early frost, and drivers who fail to exercise due caution when there is reduced visibility from fog or rain. Walking is made even more hazardous with wet entryways, untreated icy sidewalks, and even steps that are not shoveled after an early snow or freeze.

Parking lots pose their own problems as we move into the cooler months – poor lighting, icy conditions, and uneven pavement can trip up vehicles and pedestrians alike. These conditions can be worsened by the failure of property owners or managers to practice due diligence in maintenance, lighting, and surface repairs.

There are steps to mitigate your risk of accidents in the autumn months. Check your tires and brakes before taking on the elements. Wear footwear with good tread and grip and be on the lookout for potential slipping hazards such as wet leaves or icy conditions. When you do spot potential issues at stores or the workplace, report them so they can be addressed.

Seasonal Weather Accidents: What to Do Next

If you are involved in a weather-related fall or motor vehicle accident, there are certain steps you need to take to protect your well-being and preserve your rights to compensation:

Safety First: If your vehicle is involved, move it out of traffic if possible. Do not delay in seeking medical attention.

Document Everything: Take photos of the scene and any injuries. Note the location, weather conditions, and write down your best recollection of the sequence of events while your memories are fresh.

Gather Key Information: You will want vehicle information, if pertinent, including make, model, and license plate. Get the name and insurance information of the other driver(s). If there are witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers. If the incident happens on private or commercial property, get the information for any property owners, lessees, or other responsible parties.

Report the Accident: Make sure you contact the police for an official report. Also notify property owners or other responsible entities and note the time and day you do so along with their name and phone number.

For a number of reasons, it is imperative you seek medical attention immediately when involved in a fall or automobile accident. Your health and well-being are non-negotiable. Recognize that injuries such as concussion or whiplash are not immediately apparent, and you are not a trained medical professional. You will want a thorough assessment and recording of the circumstances and any injuries. If you do decide to pursue compensation, timely medical records will be key in proving your case.

And do not hesitate to reach out to a legal professional, such as a knowledgeable personal injury attorney, if you do suffer significant injury or have questions about any insurance issues or who is responsible.

There are several key benefits to having your own advocate to help navigate a possible claim or compensation. These include assistance with conducting a thorough investigation and evidence gathering, communication with key parties including insurance companies, and guiding you through the often complicated and lengthy process of pursuing legal compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Remember, we are here to help. Consultations are at no cost to you, and we can help you better understand your rights and how to pursue potential compensation. Being injured is stressful enough; having someone in your corner can help you focus on recovery and give you valuable peace of mind.

^[1] https://www.forbes.com/health/medical-alert-systems/fall-statistics/

^[2]https://www.ncoa.org/article/get-the-facts-on-falls-prevention/

^[3] https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/motor-vehicle/overview/crashes-by-month/