It looks like the snow, ice, and freezing temperatures are here to stay for a while, and while these conditions are great for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, they can be extremely dangerous for people simply trying to get from point A to point B. Sidewalks, parking lots, driveways, and outdoor stairways can quickly become hazardous when snow and ice accumulate.

I think it’s safe to assume that every Michigander has experienced a winter-related slip and fall at some point in their life. While some people are lucky enough to walk away with nothing more than embarrassment, others suffer serious injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, back injuries, or torn ligaments. In many cases, these injuries can result in lost wages, medical bills, and long-term pain.

Although slip and falls are often unexpected, there are practical steps you can take to significantly reduce your risk. Below are seven tips to help you stay safe and on your feet this winter, followed by guidance on how to fall more safely when a slip is unavoidable.

1. Wear Proper Footwear

This tip may seem obvious, but it is one of the most important ways to prevent winter slip and falls. Wearing the right footwear can dramatically reduce your risk of slipping on ice or packed snow.

You don’t necessarily need heavy snow boots every day, but you should wear shoes with good traction. Look for rubber soles with deep treads designed to grip slippery surfaces. Smooth-soled shoes, dress shoes, or worn-out sneakers can be especially dangerous in icy conditions.

Yes, proper winter footwear may not be the most “stylish” option, but it can save you from a potentially serious injury. When it comes to safety, always choose function over fashion.

2. Take Your Time

When you are in a rush and speeding up your pace, you are increasing your risk of losing your balance. Your destination can wait. No appointment, meeting, or errand is worth risking your safety. Taking slower, deliberate steps allows you to react if you encounter an ice patch and gives you better control over your footing.

Plan ahead during the winter months by allowing extra time to get where you’re going. Reducing stress and urgency can make a significant difference in preventing falls.

3. Walk Like a Penguin

It may sound silly, but penguins are experts at walking on ice for a reason. Adopting a “penguin walk” is one of the most effective techniques for navigating icy surfaces safely.

To walk like a penguin:

• Bend slightly at the knees and hips

• Keep your feet flat on the ground

• Take short, shuffling steps

• Point your feet slightly outward

• Keep your center of gravity directly over your feet

Avoid stepping heel-first, as this makes it easier for your foot to slide forward, potentially causing you to fall backward. Falling backward is particularly dangerous because it increases the risk of head and spinal injuries.

4. Use Assistance When Available

Handrails, guardrails, and other supports exist for a reason. Use them. When walking on stairs, ramps, or uneven surfaces, holding onto a handrail can help you maintain balance and provide support if you slip.

Additionally, if you normally use a cane, walker, or other mobility aid, be sure to use it. Don’t let pride or ego put your safety at risk. These tools are designed to help you stay upright and reduce the chance of serious injury.

5. Keep Your Hands Free

Keeping your hands in your pocket might help with warmth, but it can be dangerous when walking on ice. If you slip, your hands are your first line of defense to help catch yourself and soften the impact.

Keeping your hands free also allows you to use them for balance, similar to a tightrope walker using their arms. If you need warmth, consider wearing gloves or mittens instead of relying on your pockets.

6. Be Aware Of Your Surroundings

In today’s world, it seems like everyone is glued to their phones, even and especially while walking. While we’ve all done it, winter is not the time for distractions.

Looking down at your phone prevents you from noticing ice patches, uneven pavement, or hidden hazards under snow. By the time you see the danger, it may be too late to react.

Keep your head up, scan the ground ahead of you, and stay alert.

7. Just Stay Home

Sometimes, the best way to avoid a slip and fall is to avoid going out altogether. If the weather is particularly bad and you don’t absolutely need to leave your home, consider staying in. Your errand can most likely wait.

Ways To Fall Safely

Even if you follow every safety tip, slips can still happen. If you feel yourself starting to fall, Harvard Medical School has some steps you can take to reduce the severity of the injury.

While it may sound counterintuitive, try to lean into the fall rather than fighting it. This can give you some control over the direction you fall. Swinging your arms may also help redirect your body and potentially even regain your balance.

Whenever possible, try to fall on your butt rather than your back or head. This area of your body provides more natural cushioning and is generally closer to the ground, which can reduce the amount of force. Finally, just relax. You don’t want to tense up while falling as that can worsen injuries.

When a Slip and Fall Results in Injury

If, in the end, these tips come too late, or if you were injured despite taking precautions, you may have legal options. In many cases, property owners have a responsibility to maintain safe conditions by shoveling snow, salting icy surfaces, and addressing known hazards.

If a property owner’s negligence contributed to your injury, contacting an experienced slip and fall attorney can help you understand your rights. At MichiganLawsuit.com, we help injured individuals determine whether a property owner failed to meet their duty of care and, if so, pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

You don’t have to navigate recovery alone. Give us a call at (855) 529-6424.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique, and results depend on the specific facts and circumstances. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. If you have been injured, please contact a licensed attorney to discuss your specific situation.