The holidays involve many delightful annual traditions. But many holiday activities could increase your risk for injury. The personal injury attorneys at the law offices of Doug T. Sachse list several of the season’s most common injuries, and suggest prevention methods for a safer, happier holiday.

During the holidays, individuals break with their daily routine to visit family, decorate their homes and enjoy the festivities that mark the holiday season. Many of these holiday activities, however, pose unique risks that many may not anticipate. If holiday activities have not been assessed with safety in mind, they could lead to injury.

Below are several common holiday-related injuries, accompanied by tips for ensuring that each activity is performed safely:

Car Accidents

Casual alcohol consumption increases significantly across the country during the holidays. Celebrations are common during this season, increasing motorists’ risk of being involved in or falling victim to drunk driving accidents. In addition, longer and darker nights may cause drivers to experience impaired or limited vision. Further, winter weather conditions make roads difficult to navigate, especially when impaired.

Tips

• Strictly enforce designated driving among your family and friends.
• Avoid driving in poor weather conditions.
• Travel with a companion.
• Tell your friends and family your travel plans.

Decorating Falls

According to the Center for Disease Control, nearly 6,000 Americans are injured from falls while decorating for the holidays each year. Generally, these falls result from the use of an unstable surface some distance off the ground, such as ladders and pieces of furniture. As such, precautions should be taken to mitigate the risk of falling prior to decorating.

Tips

• Practice safe and proper ladder use.
• Inspect your climbing equipment prior to putting your full weight on it.
• Recruit assistance and decorate together.
• Keep the climbing area clear of clutter.

Electrical Shocks

Individuals who do not take the proper precautions risk being shocked from both indoor and outdoor electrical holiday displays. Receiving an electrical shock can result in heart attack, muscle and nerve damage, and burns. Some individuals do not turn off or unplug their electrical displays while they sleep or when they leave the house, increasing the chances that an electrical short could cause problems or pose further danger.

Tips

• Use only new, high-quality extension cords and lights.
• Choose LED lights over incandescent.
• Never decorate a metallic tree with lights.

Back Strains from Luggage

Travel is a regular activity for many individuals during the holiday season. It often requires long periods of standing or sitting, as well as the transportation of heavy, cumbersome baggage. Long journeys can also result in lack of sleep and reduced opportunities for exercise, causing the body to be more susceptible to injury.

Tips

• Purchase high quality luggage that is light but durable.
• Exclusively use suitcases with wheels.
• Plan your packing ahead of time to avoid overpacking.
• Wear or carry your bags as they are designed to be transported.
• If you witness a luggage-related back injury, keep the injured party still until medical help arrives.

If you have the unfortunate experience of being injured during the holiday season, it may be in your best interest to consult with an experienced attorney who is well versed in personal injury law. A high-quality lawyer will help to ensure that you receive the compensation your injury merits.

To learn more about how a personal injury lawyer can help to ensure that your rights are protected and you get the compensation you deserve, contact the Law Offices of Doug T. Sachse today.