Autumn brings many nostalgic memories of childhood for adults, and endless opportunities for fun and adventure for all ages. The changing leaves, pumpkins, and cool air are a favorite for many, but the shorter days and wet weather can present many hazards for pedestrians and drivers alike.
LEAVES
Despite their beauty, leaves coating the ground make visibility of walkways and sidewalks very difficult. They can also fill holes, dips and uneven pavement making a slip, trip fall accident extremely common for pedestrians.
Keeping sidewalks and paths clear of slip and fall hazards are the responsibility of the land owner – be it a homeowner, business or township/borough. If you suffered an injury on someone elses’ property due to an abundance of leaves not being cleared, you may be entitled to compensation. Call 1-800-444-5309 now for a free consultation.
Wet leaves are especially hazardous because they become extremely slippery – for pedestrians and drivers. As a homeowner it is smart to clear leaves from your walkways and driveways as soon as possible because once wet, leaves become very difficult to remove. Be mindful not to blow leaves into the roadway as that could cause tire slippage resulting in skidding and accidents.
LIGHTING
As the seasons change, so does the length and timing of daylight. The brighter morning commute and darker evening commute can both present challenges for drivers and pedestrians.
After daylight savings time, mornings could cause sun glare during your drive to and from work, decreasing visibility. If you find yourself straining to see through the glare remember to slow down as you pass through the bright spot, be mindful of your surroundings – especially in a city as pedestrians may be crossing in areas that you cannot see clearly.
The earlier darkness in the evenings presents a challenge to pedestrians as they are not as visible to oncoming traffic, and they cannot clearly see the path unless the area is well-lit. Pedestrians should remember to wear reflective gear, carry a light source, and always look both ways and ensure you have adequate time before crossing roadways.
Homeowners and business owners should take this week prior to daylight savings to ensure all exterior lights are functioning and set to turn on at dusk to help prevent any slip and fall accidents on their property.
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident, we can help. Contact our Slip and Fall attorneys for a free consultation. We will review your case to see if you are entitled to compensation as a result of your accident. Call 1-800-444-5309 now.
