HOLIDAY WISHES AND WARNINGS FROM AN INDIANA PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY

Despite the limits the pandemic has imposed on our 2020 celebrations, all of us arel ready for a  holiday season marked by happiness and sharing. Unfortunately, as we have learned at Ramey & Hailey over the decades, December invariably turns out to be one of the most “personally dangerous” months of the year. We offer these safety tips in hopes that this time around, fewer personal injuries will happen…..

Dangers posed by holiday decorations

With more families stuck at home, there will be plenty of hazards posed by decorations. Artificial snow sprays can irritate lungs if inhaled, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission warns. Checking lights for broken or cracked sockets and loose wires is important, using no more than three sets of lights, the CPSC cautions. Remember that very small decorations can be swallowed by children.

Dangers posed by holiday cooking

Never leave cooking food unattended on the stove, and never overheat oil in a fryer, CPSC reminds consumers. Flammable items such as potholders and paper bags need to be kept away from the stove. Don’t wear loose-fitting clothing around the stovetop, and turn pan handles towards the back (so they won’t be accidentally bumped). In case a pan does catch on fire, smother the flames with a lid, never using water for dousing.

Dangers posed by reckless drivers

Even in December 2020, people are going to be in a rush to buy, send – and especially to return – gifts. Indiana weather is unreliable at best, and not every auto driver – and not every delivery vehicle driver – is as careful as need be during the last month of the year. Should you find yourself injured by a reckless driver, contact us before accepting any settlement offered by an insurance company.

Dangers caused by slippery floors in stores

More than ever this December, watch where you’re walking. Frayed carpeting, loose floorboards, and wet floors can turn a shopping errand into a tragedy. Slip and fall accident cases are based on a type of negligence called premises liability. Property owners have a duty to prevent dangerous conditions in and around their premises. If you or someone in your family suffers a fall in or around a store, a personal injury attorney can help holder the owner liable.

While holidays are meant to be a time for joy and peace, that can happen only when you stay safe. Having armed you with safety tips and cautions galore, it’s time for me to wish you and yours a very, very happy holiday season!