SKIP TO CONTENTWinters in Oklahoma can be harsh, with temperatures in January consistently at below-freezing temperatures. There are plenty of hazards to avoid, including icy sidewalks and roads, which can make walking and driving especially dangerous.
No matter how careful you are, injuries can still happen. This is especially true if someone else’s negligence creates a risky situation. Here are the most common personal injury claims the law office of Bryan Garrett, PLLC, handles during the winter season.
Car Accidents
Drivers in Oklahoma aren’t known for having experience driving in snowy or icy conditions, which can lead to an increased number of accidents. Failing to take proper precautions or driving too fast are the leading causes of accidents during Oklahoma winters.
As a result, it’s not unusual for Oklahoma to experience an uptick in accidents when temperatures drop and driving conditions become more hazardous. If someone causes an accident because they did not adjust their driving habits to suit the current weather or road conditions, the other party in the crash can receive compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and other economic damages.
Pedestrian Accidents
Even in cold weather, people still need to get from point A to point B, and that can often occur on foot. A pedestrian accident involves a motor vehicle striking a pedestrian. Low visibility or difficulty braking because of slippery roads can increase the likelihood of being involved in a pedestrian accident.
Even if a driver blames the road conditions for the accident, drivers still owe everyone on the road a duty of care, including pedestrians. Therefore, if you or a loved one is struck by a vehicle, you likely have a personal injury claim.
Slip and Fall Injuries
Another common personal injury claim that is prevalent in winter is a slip and fall case. Here, what often happens is that someone enters a store or other commercial establishment and slips on a wet or slippery surface. Another scenario occurs when someone slips or trips because of an icy sidewalk.
It’s important to note that Oklahoma law will typically not allow someone who slips or falls due to a natural condition like ice. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, so it’s important to speak with a personal injury law firm to determine whether you have a case.
For example, if a property owner has shoveled the sidewalk to make it appear like the surface is safe to walk on, but they didn’t do an adequate job, you could have a case if you subsequently slip and fall.
Winter Sports Injuries
Winter sports are fun and adventurous, though they also carry some risk. While in most cases, a participant in the activity assumes the risk and is not eligible for compensation, there are exceptions if someone else engages in negligent conduct. A personal injury attorney can help you make this determination.
Workers’ Compensation Cases
Injuries can also occur on the job during winter, and these are often classified as workers’ compensation cases. Here, the employer’s workers’ compensation insurance would foot the bill for your injuries and other claims.
Common workers’ compensation claims during the winter season include:
- Slipping and falling on a job site
- Car accidents for workers employed in the transportation industry
- Weather-related injuries and illness, such as hypothermia, frostbite, etc.
Contact an Experienced OKC Personal Injury Attorney Today
No matter the season, getting help from a personal injury attorney is vital to protecting your rights. At the law office of Bryan Garrett, PLLC, there is no charge for an initial consultation, and we work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you don’t pay until we win. To find out how much your case could be worth, contact us for a free consultation.
