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With the holiday season quickly approaching, that means more travel, more activities, and more accidents. The potential for more injuries during the holiday season increases. Staying safe and protecting yourself this holiday season is the best way to ensure that you have a more enjoyable holiday season. We’ve compiled a list of the most common holiday season personal injuries.
#1) Car Accidents
The chance, risk, and potential of a car accident increase due to the greater volume in traffic during the holiday season. With more people driving in places they are unfamiliar with, there is a greater chance that traffic will back up. Drivers will become more impatient and more likely to be in a rush with these said traffic conditions. In addition, there are also more impaired, distracted, and fatigued drivers on the road. In this case, it’s important to pay attention to those around you and the difference in traffic patterns or way that drivers are driving. Poor weather conditions can also be an accident causing factor with snow, sleet, and rain being common during the holiday season.
The best way to keep yourself safe is to never drink and drive, always remain attentive to your surroundings, and drive defensively. In addition, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with the following items:
- Warm Blanket
- Non-Perishable Snacks
- Water
- Fully-Charged Cell Phone
#2) Holiday Decorating – Related Falls
According to the CDC, approximately 5,800 Americans are treated for injuries by “decking the halls.” Among those 5,800 American treated for injuries, 43% of those injuries involved a ladder. Falls from any height can result in bruises, pulled muscles, concussions, or broken bones.
When deciding to climb up a ladder, always practice caution, especially when decorating. Never stand on furniture or unbalanced surfaces. Don’t reach too far off the center of balance so that you don’t lose your balance. It is critical that you pay attention to safety warnings on ladders and don’t climb too high if you are alone.
#3) Electrical Shock
A study by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reported that 5,000 people are treated for electrical shock by Christmas lights. Yes, all those beautiful lights can be a danger too. Electric current can cause injuries such as thermal burns, muscle, nerve, and tissue damage, and cardiac arrest.
Before starting to use any light strands or cords, carefully inspect and look for any frayed wires or tears in the protective coating. In addition, don’t overload sockets. Make sure to unplug any decorations when you are away from home.
#4) Back Injuries
A more unnoticeable injury that occurs during the holiday season. Holiday travel and movement of large presents, boxes, and luggage can cause stress on your back. Lugging overloaded objects can cause strains, sprains, or worse. According to the CSPC, there is a record of an annual 53,790 luggage-related injuries during holiday travel.
To avoid unnecessary neck, back, and shoulder injuries this holiday season, lift heavy items with your legs and carry the items close to your body. When carrying a backpack, keep the weight evenly distributed with the shoulder straps to prevent soreness and injury. Lastly, if something feels too heavy, do not lift it on your own. Find someone to assist you in lifting the item so you don’t injure yourself.
#5) Lacerations from Opening Gifts
As odd as it sounds, this can, and does happen very often. According to the CPSC, there is an average of about 6,000 people treated each year for package-related injuries. These injuries occur from improper opening of gifts, anticipation, excitement, and unsure circumstances.
When opening gifts and packages, avoid using sharp objects that can gouge your hands. Evaluate the situation and pick the right tool for the job. If you don’t know how to open it or what tool to use, ask for help from someone before attempting to do it yourself.
If you or someone you know is injured during this holiday season, the attorneys at Ramos & Ramos are here to help. Fill out our Free Case Evaluation to determine how much your case is truly worth or contact one of our caring attorneys to answer any questions you may have. Stay safe and enjoy the holiday season!
