Winter weather in Austin, Texas, can be dangerous, especially if it brings sudden cold snaps. Freezing rain, black ice, and extreme temperature drops can create serious hazards that lead to preventable injuries. If you want to stay safe in the winters of Texas, it helps to know a little more about winter hazards and injuries, including what you can do if you think someone else’s negligence leads to one.
Slips & Falls on Ice or Wet Surfaces
Bridges, overpasses, parking lots, sidewalks, and stairways can quickly become slick when temperatures drop below freezing. Black ice, which is nearly invisible to the naked eye, is especially dangerous and can cause sudden falls while walking along exterior pathways.
Slip and fall injuries may result in broken bones, head injuries, spinal trauma, or soft-tissue damage. Property owners and managers may have a responsibility to address hazardous conditions, especially in areas open to the public.
Slip and fall accident prevention tips include:
- Wearing shoes with good traction during cold or wet weather
- Walking slowly and avoiding shaded areas where ice may linger
- Property owners promptly treating icy surfaces and posting warnings
Car Accidents Caused by Icy Roads
Winter weather dramatically increases the risk of car accidents and truck accidents in Central Texas. Icy roads reduce traction, lengthen stopping distances, and make steering unpredictable. Drivers who are unfamiliar with winter conditions may brake too hard or drive too fast for the weather, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
Ways to reduce the risk of a winter car accident include:
- Slowing down and increasing following distance
- Avoiding sudden braking or sharp turns
- Staying off the roads when conditions are especially hazardous
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning from Unsafe Heating or Generator Use
During power outages or cold weather emergencies, some people rely on generators, vehicles, or alternative heating methods to stay warm. When used improperly, though, the carbon monoxide (CO) produced by these sources of heat can gather in unsafe areas. As a colorless, odorless gas, CO can be incredibly difficult or impossible to detect without the proper alarms installed around your home.
Carbon monoxide poisoning often begins with headaches, dizziness, and confusion, but it can lead to loss of consciousness, long-term organ damage, and death.
Safety measures to prevent CO poisoning during the winter include:
- Never run generators or vehicles indoors or in enclosed spaces
- Install carbon monoxide detectors around your home
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for all heating equipment
Hypothermia & Cold-Related Injuries
Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia, especially for older adults, children, outdoor workers, or people without adequate shelter. Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, which may impair organ function, trigger hallucinations, and restrict blood flow. Frostbite and cold-related circulation issues can also occur during extended exposure.
To help stay safe from hypothermia, try to always:
- Dress in layers and protect extremities
- Limit time outdoors during extreme cold
- Check on vulnerable family members and neighbors
Overexertion Injuries from Cold-Weather Tasks
During snow and ice removal, set a steady, safe pace. When people rush to clear walkways or driveways without proper preparation, they may overexert themselves. Shoveling or heavy lifting in cold weather can strain muscles, trigger back injuries, or even contribute to cardiac events.
To reduce overexertion injuries while working in the winter, you should:
- Take frequent breaks and pace yourself
- Use proper lifting techniques
- Avoid heavy exertion if you have underlying health concerns
Seeking Legal Guidance After a Winter Injury
Not every winter injury involves negligence, but some do.
You may want to speak with a legal professional if your injuries were caused by:
- A property owner’s failure to address icy or unsafe conditions
- A driver who failed to adjust to winter road hazards
- Unsafe products, equipment, or heating devices
With legal guidance, you can understand your rights and what options might be available to you under Texas law. It might be possible to file a claim to pursue compensation for any related losses.
Call Our Winter Injury Lawyers in Austin, Texas
At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we are here to help you explore your legal options after suffering a winter injury. With a law office in Austin, we bring extensive practice experience, thorough case development, and the ability to take cases to trial when necessary. Just as importantly, we believe in providing genuine moral support to every client we serve, so you will always feel informed and supported as your case develops.
If you or someone you love has been injured during the winter months and you believe another party’s negligence may be involved, call us at (512) 359-3743 or submit an online contact form at any time.