Staying Safe on Seattle’s Slippery Streets: Preventing Winter Injuries This Holiday Season
As the holiday lights sparkle across Seattle and the rain turns our streets into icy hazards, it’s the perfect time to focus on safety. With shorter days and unpredictable weather, December brings a spike in accidents that can turn festive cheer into unexpected hardship. In Washington State, falls account for 49 percent of all injury-related deaths for adults aged 60 and older. Nationally, over 14 million older adults—or 1 in 4—report falling each year, and Seattle’s wet winters only amplify these risks. At Kobes Legal PLLC, our Seattle-based personal injury attorneys are committed to helping victims recover, but we’d much rather see you avoid injury altogether. In this post, we’ll explore common winter injuries, share practical prevention tips, and explain your options if the worst happens.
Common Winter Injuries in Seattle and How They Happen
Seattle’s unique climate—endless rain mixing with occasional freezes—creates prime conditions for accidents. Here’s a look at the most frequent issues we see at our firm:
- Slips and Falls: Untreated sidewalks, driveways, and store entrances become treacherous with black ice or wet leaves. These often fall under premises liability if property owners fail to maintain safe conditions. Falls, slips, or trips account for 22 percent of workplace fatalities in Washington, higher than the national average.
- Car Accidents: Poor visibility, hydroplaning on roads like I-5 or Aurora Avenue, and sudden ice patches lead to crashes. Winter weather contributes to about 12% of all motor vehicle crashes nationwide, resulting in over 744,000 incidents and 268,000 injuries annually. In Washington, snow and ice accidents cause an average of 1,836 deaths and 136,309 injuries each year.
- Holiday-Specific Risks: Drunk driving surges during December festivities, with over 4,931 national deaths in drunk-driving crashes from 2019-2023. In Washington, about 50% of holiday traffic fatalities involve impaired drivers. Add in defective holiday decorations causing fires or shocks, or overexertion from shoveling snow, and the risks multiply—especially at events like the Seattle Center Winterfest or the Argosy Cruises Christmas Ship Festival.
Shorter daylight hours and holiday distractions, like rushing to the Seattle Christmas Market, further increase the chances of mishaps.
Prevention Tips to Keep Your Holidays Injury-Free
Prevention is your best defense. Here are actionable steps tailored to Seattle’s winter woes:
- For Slips and Falls:
- Wear shoes with good traction and use handrails on stairs.
- Clear your walkways of ice and report hazards in public spaces—property owners have a duty to keep areas safe.
- For older adults, consider balance exercises or assistive devices.
- Driving Safety:
- Check tire tread and brakes before heading out; slow down in rain or fog.
- Avoid distractions—put the phone away during holiday errands.
- Follow Washington’s strict DUI laws: Designate a sober driver for events like holiday concerts or the Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition.
- Home and Holiday Tips:
- Inspect electrical decorations for damage to prevent shocks or fires.
- Limit alcohol at gatherings and stay hydrated to avoid dehydration-related falls.
- Dress in layers for outdoor activities, like visiting the Magic in the Market, to prevent hypothermia.
By staying proactive, you can enjoy Seattle’s holiday magic without the setbacks.
What If an Injury Happens? Your Legal Options in Seattle
Despite best efforts, accidents occur. If you’re injured due to someone else’s negligence:
- Immediate Steps: Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor—documentation is crucial.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the scene, collect witness contacts, and note details like weather conditions.
- Consult an Attorney: At Kobes Legal PLLC, we’ve helped clients recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain after winter slips or crashes. For example, we recently assisted a client in a successful claim against a property owner for an unsalted parking lot fall.
Remember, Washington’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the incident, but acting quickly preserves evidence. Common claims include auto accidents, slip-and-falls, and product liability for faulty items.
Enjoy the Season Safely
Seattle’s holidays are a time for joy—from Winterfest’s sparkling lights to family gatherings. By prioritizing safety, you can make memories without mishaps. If you’ve been injured this December, don’t navigate the legal process alone.
Contact Kobes Legal PLLC today for a free consultation. Our experienced Seattle personal injury attorneys are here to fight for the compensation you deserve. Call or text us at (206) 915-7177 or visit kobeslegal.com to learn more. Stay safe out there!
This article was prepared by Kobes Legal PLLC with support from our content team and approved by attorney Brett Kobes.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney–client relationship. Please consult a licensed attorney about your specific situation.