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The holiday season is finally here, and Colorado Springs residents are busy getting ready for the 2021 festivities. This will be an even busier time of year as more families try to reconnect with loved ones. Since last year’s COVID-19 pandemic put a damper on many holiday events, many families are heading out to enjoy parties and gatherings for the first time in two years.
Unfortunately, the holiday months are also dangerous. The risk of suffering an injury in an accident increases during the holiday season. To increase your chances of staying safe this holiday, it is important to understand the most common accidents that may occur. This way, you can try your best to avoid them.
Falls During the Holiday Season
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that more than 5,800 people suffer injuries in falls during the holiday season. Why? Hanging decorations on the home can be dangerous. From falling off a roof while hanging lights to tripping over an extension cord, falling is one of the most common holiday accidents.
How can you avoid these accidents? Always have a buddy with you when using a ladder to hang items. Make sure the ladder is level and do not overreach to hang decorations. When using extension cords, make sure they’re tucked out of the way or secured down.
Holiday Car Accidents
Car accidents are unfortunately common during the holidays. From drunk driving crashes to bad weather accidents, the risk of getting into a car accident increases from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. According to the National Safety Council, an average of 373 people die in traffic accidents during the three-day New Year holiday. An additional 343 fatal car accidents occur during the three-day Christmas holiday as well.
How can you avoid these accidents? Car accidents are not always avoidable. However, to decrease your chances of getting into a serious accident, follow these tips:
- Never drink and drive
- Do not use your phone while driving
- Keep an eye on the weather and chart your course ahead of time
- Do not drive in bad weather if you have the option
- Avoid speeding or tailgating
Fires During the Holidays
Fires are unfortunately common during the holidays. From burning candles to frayed wires, the risk of getting into a home fire is higher during this time of year. Between 2014 and 2018, U.S. fire departments responded to 160 home fires a year that were just caused by Christmas trees. 45 percent of these fires were caused by electrical distribution or lighting equipment.
How can you avoid these accidents? Home fires can be prevented by properly taking care of your Christmas tree. Keep it well watered during the holidays and keep it away from heat sources like radiators. Check wires and lights for loose connections or for frays that could increase the risk of a fire. Be sure to keep all candles supervised and out of the way of pets and children.
Contact Our Colorado Springs Personal Injury Law Firm Today
If you or someone you love suffered an injury in an accident this year, and you believe that someone else is to blame, call our law firm immediately. Contact the Green Law Firm, P.C. today by calling (719) 694-8515, or by filling out the contact form on this page, to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and discuss your case.