Slipping accidents soar during icy conditions

During the recent lengthy and treacherous conditions of snow and ice across the UK, hospital reports indicated that A&E admissions for injuries due to snow-related accidents were up significantly and on average amounted to 23% of their total admissions, according to the Nursing Times.

The accidents have presented all types of breaks and other injuries, including wrists, legs and pelvises. Others have injured their shoulders or legs and many have cuts on their heads where they have fallen backwards and banged their head.

IOSH incorrectly credited on slipping accident liability

At the same time, some of the media was reporting that businesses would be unwise to clear the snow from areas outside their property boundaries, since accidents that subsequently occurred on those cleared areas could result in claims against them for accident compensation.

The Sunday Telegraph (10th January 2010) and other sections of the media, ran a story stating that IOSH was suggesting that businesses could chose to grit the access areas, but should be mindful that as this would give the appearance that the path was safe and free of ice, should an accident occur, they could incur liability.

The quotation that they used was actually from a Croner contribution to a magazine the previous year. Whilst IOSH were contacted, and provided a detailed comment from their Policy and Technical Director Richard Jones, the Sunday Telegraph chose to use the quote from Croner and attributed it to IOSH.

IOSH suggest businesses should be good a employer and neighbour

IOSH subsequently made it clear that the contents of the quote are not an accurate reflection of their policy, and that on the contrary, they would encourage businesses to do all they can to ensure the safety of their employees and visitors, as well as being a good neighbour. Their position is to encourage the view that health and safety should be seen as protecting people, not endangering them. By carrying out the clearing of snow and ice from areas outside their boundaries, they would be helping to reduce the possibility of accidents. Please visit the IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) website for more details.

Making an accident compensation claim

If you or a family member have been injured in a slip, trip or fall accident through no fault of their own, you may be able to make a claim for accident compensation. If you select Clear Answers to represent you in your claim, we will be happy to provide you with expert legal advice, and our specialist personal injury lawyers will talk you through the claims process in plain English. They will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding your accident claim.

You will receive 100% of your compensation, and the person responsible for your accident will pay our legal fees - our service will be cost-free for you.

Please ring us on 0800 783 9019 and speak to one of our advisers to see if you have a valid accident compensation claim. Alternatively, if you prefer to complete one of our online compensation claim forms, a representative will contact you as quickly as possible.

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