Steps Elderly Individuals Can Take to Reduce Winter Fall Risks

For many older adults, ice, snow, and freezing temperatures make everyday tasks like walking to the mailbox or visiting the grocery store potentially hazardous. Fortunately, there are proactive measures seniors can take to protect themselves from slips and falls during the coldest months of the year.

At Jeffress Law, PC, we work with individuals who have been hurt by someone else’s negligence. Our team is led by Christopher Jeffress, a former insurance attorney who now fights for victims and ensures they receive fair compensation.

If you or a loved one experiences a winter fall, we can help you understand your legal rights. Learn more about prevention and proper actions to take in the event of an accident below.

Safety Tips to Prevent Winter Falls

Simple precautions can greatly decrease the risk of winter-related falls:

• Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes or boots with good traction and non-slip soles.
• Use Assistive Devices: Canes or walkers provide extra stability, especially on icy walkways.
• Keep Walkways Clear: Salt or sand your driveway and sidewalks regularly, or ask someone to help.
• Take Smaller Steps: Short, shuffling steps can improve balance on slippery surfaces.
• Stay Active Year-Round: Resistance and balance exercises improve muscle tone and reduce fall risk.
• Use Handrails: Whether on stairs or ramps, hold onto railings for added safety.

What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident

Even with precautions, falls can still happen. If you or a loved one is hurt in a slip and fall accident, take the following steps:

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health and safety come first. Some injuries may not be obvious right away.
• Document the Scene: Photograph the location, ice or snow conditions, and any hazards involved.
• Get Witness Information: If anyone saw the fall, their account can support your claim.
• File a Report: Inform the property owner or manager and formally document the incident.
• Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: Clarifying liability in winter slip-and-fall cases can be complex. An experienced attorney can offer advice and help you determine if negligence played a role.

Contact a Boulder Slip and Fall Lawyer Today

If you or an elderly loved one has been hurt in a winter fall, call Jeffress Law, PC, at 303-993-8685 or text 303-225-9101 to schedule a consultation. We proudly serve clients in Boulder, Loveland, Fort Collins, Longmont, and the surrounding areas.