It is that time of year when winter weather can roll into our area at anytime. Snow, ice, and freezing rain make for slippery conditions. Not only does winter weather cause motor vehicle accidents, but frequently causes work-related injuries.
Whether injured workers are walking to work from parking lots, walking between buildings, taking trash out, slips and falls on ice and snow are common at work. They are also work-related injuries that are compensable under the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act.
Best ways to prevent slips and falls on ice are be sure you are walking in a well lit area. Check your path ahead of you to determine if there is a treacherous condition. Report snow and ice build up to your employer. Finally, wear proper footwear for the conditions.
Slip and fall injuries at work in winter weather bring a substantial amount of work injuries that can lead to significant injuries. I have had numerous clients over the years suffer from winter related slip and falls. Commonly, I see low back injures, knee injuries, concussion type injuries, and shoulder injuries. These injuries can be quite debilitating, lead to significant treatment, including surgery, and loss of wages from work.
If you are involved in a slip and fall at work due to snow or ice, follow these steps:
- Immediately report the slip and fall to your employer and ask for a written incident report. Take a picture with your phone.
- Don’t play it tough and try and tough it out. Seek immediate medical treatment and be sure to describe the incident to the medical provider. What the medical records reflect on how an injury occurs can be extremely important for your case.
- Be sure to get work notes or restrictions from your doctor. Also, be sure to provide any work notes to your employer.
- Finally, call Mooney Law for an absolutely free consultation. The insurance company and their attorney are overlooking your claim, shouldn’t you have an experienced workers’ compensation attorney on your side? Of course.
If you have been hurt on the job, call Mooney Law for an absolutely free consultation. Call today at 717-200-HELP or 717-632-4656. you can also visit us online at Mooney4Law.com.
