The holiday season is upon us and it’s a time for shopping, celebrations, and get-togethers with loved ones. And while this time of year is meant for enjoyment and holiday cheer, it’s also common to be at risk of preventable injuries.

Increased sociability brings with it numerous traditions that pose some season-specific dangers. In fact, according to an article published by Global News, falls and overexertion is some of the most common causes of personal injuries during the holiday season. This makes it necessary to know the risks and take measures to reduce them.

Our personal injury lawyers in Brampton want you to enjoy the holidays safely. That’s why they have put together this list of the most common holiday-related accidents and the best ways to prevent them.

Holiday Safety Tips by Personal Injury Lawyers in Brampton

Don’t let your busy schedule keep you from staying safe this holiday season. Our personal injury lawyers in Brampton have provided a quick list of personal injuries during the holidays and how to avoid them.

• • Tip 1: Be Careful When Decorating and Hanging Holiday Lights: While decorations and Christmas lights are great ways to bring holiday cheer, you need to use them safely, whether you are putting them on walls or hanging lights outdoors. Check out the best ways to avoid personal injuries when putting up decorations this holiday season.
    • Refrain from placing your Christmas tree and other decorations in walkways to prevent slip, trip, and fall accidents.
    • Remember that some decorations, like glass angels, made by using artificial snow or spun glass, can be hazardous.
    • Avoid fire hazards by always checking your holiday lights for loose connections and frays before hanging them.
    • According to the Government of Canada website, it’s best to choose lights that contain the mark of an accredited certification agency such as cETL, cUL or CSA. Plus, you may also go through the Healthy Canadians Recalls and Safety Alerts Database before using or purchasing lights to stay well-informed about the latest recalls.
    • Make sure you use a step ladder when hanging outdoor lights and decorations rather than standing on a chair or another piece of furniture.
    • Avoid plugging too many decorations and lights into the same outlet as overloaded circuits can overheat and result in the fire breaking out.
  • Tip 2: Avoid Slip, Trip, and Fall Accidents and Other Physical Injuries: Slipping, tripping, and falling are common types of personal injuries that happen during the holiday season as parking lots and sidewalks can become slippery due to ice, snow, and rain. Plus, with many stores offering holiday sales, they can be packed with shoppers, increasing the chances of injuries due to uneven flooring, bunched-up carpeting, and peeling floor signs. Keep in mind that slips and falls can lead to minor and major issues such as neck and/or shoulder injuries, hip fractures, broken bones, and soft tissue injuries.
    To minimize your probability of slipping and falling, it’s important not to rush, even if you are in a hurry. Always keep an eye out for wet spots on the streets and fallen merchandise in store aisles.
    Also, focus on the road as you walk. When in areas with poor lighting like parking lots, watch out for debris on the ground and potholes. Use the flashlight on your phone for better visibility.
  • Tip 3: Be Wary of Impaired Drivers: During the holiday season, there is often a significant surge in car accidents as a result of alcohol-related car crashes and increased traffic for holiday travel. This can make it more dangerous to drive, especially at night. When these road conditions are paired with snow and ice, it can make matters worse. To avoid injuries in a motor vehicle accident, follow these pointers:
    • Avoid using your cellphone when walking or driving.
    • Keep an eye out for distracted pedestrians, particularly in busy areas.
    • If you plan to drink at a party, plan for a designated driver before you get there. Or have friends call you a ride share service or taxi.
    • Make sure the driver and passengers all wear a seat belt and have a booster seat for children.
    • When travelling long distances, get your car checked to ensure the tires have sufficient tread, the coolant is topped up, and the brakes are in good working order.
    • When driving, allow enough space between you and the car in front. Tailgating won’t help you reach your destination sooner and increases the likelihood of an accident.

Remember, drunk drivers can face both civil liability and criminal charges. In case you are injured because of the actions of another driver, you can file a civil claim for physical pain, financial losses, and emotional suffering. Here are some things to do immediately after a car accident.
No one anticipates or envisions getting hurt during the holidays. If you have sustained injuries because of someone else’s negligence or carelessness, you may be eligible to seek compensation by filing a personal injury claim for damages. In such instances, your best bet is to hire a personal injury lawyer to help you file a claim and pursue fair monetary compensation.