4 Tips to Avoid a Lawsuit This Holiday Season

‘Tis the Season…for Holiday Accidents?

The holiday season is a joyous and exciting time. But unfortunately, there are safety risks even during this happy time of year. Between parties with alcohol, winter weather, and the number of people on the road, holiday accidents are quite common. No one should have to spend the holidays in the hospital because of an injury sustained in an accident. And the last gift someone wants to receive this season is a lawsuit. But there are precautions you can take to avoid a holiday accident that could potentially lead to a lawsuit.

4 Tips to Avoid a Lawsuit This Holiday Season

1. 1. Be extra cautious in parking lots. From Black Friday through New Year’s, stores and malls will be crowded with holiday shoppers. This means more cars and pedestrians in parking lots. Accidents in parking lots are common this time of year. In fact, Progressive Insurance reports that almost 25 percent of Black Friday accident claims occur in parking lots. Be sure to stop for pedestrians who are walking through the parking lot. Check that no cars or pedestrians are behind you when you are backing out of a parking spot. Pay more attention when it is dark out, as the sun sets earlier in the winter and it is harder to see pedestrians.

1. 1. Clear your walkways of snow and ice. These conditions put people at high risk for slip and falls. If you are a property owner, shovel snow and put down salt. You don’t want anyone to end up in the emergency room because they slipped on ice on your property.
   2. Watch who you serve alcohol to at your holiday party. Never serve alcohol to minors. Don’t let your guests drink too much if they are going to drive. You could be held responsible if a drunken party guest leaves your house and gets into a car accident. Make sure that your guests have a safe ride home. Take extra precautions if you are organizing an office holiday party where alcohol will be served.

1. Make sure gifts you give to children are age-appropriate. If you are buying toys for young family members or friends, check the age range on the packaging.  A young child could choke on a small part from a toy designed for older kids. You don’t want your gift to cause harm to a young child.

Personal Injury Lawyers in Philadelphia, PA and Marlton, NJ

When we take precautions, we reduce the risk of injuries caused by negligence. But we can’t protect ourselves from everything. In the unfortunate event that you or a loved one suffered an injury, a personal injury lawyer at Kane & Silverman can help. Whether the injury was due to a slip and fall, car accident, or defective toy, we will fight to get you compensation for your holiday accident. If you believe that you may have a holiday accident claim, please fill out our contact form online or contact us at 215-232-1000.