While cold weather might signal the arrival of the holiday season, it also ushers in a whole slew of problems when it comes to workplace safety. Although Georgia doesn’t normally experience severe winter weather conditions, something as simple as black ice could result in a serious injury. If you suffer from illness, injuries, or accidents from cold weather while on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation and should reach out to an experienced attorney to help you with your case.

There are several potentially disastrous scenarios that are significantly more likely to occur on the job during winter months including: 

Cold Stress Illness—Hypothermia and Frostbite 

If you work outside, you could suffer from hypothermia or frostbite during the winter. To avoid both of these injuries, it is essential that you wear the proper protective clothing (layer!) and take frequent breaks to warm up. By drinking plenty of warm fluids, moving around frequently, and taking other preventative measures, you can avoid suffering from these dangerous and potentially life-threatening injuries. 

Sprains, Strains, Slips and Falls

Freezing temperatures are often accompanied by ice on the ground. Injuries related to slips and falls become much more common in the winter and these accidents can result in breaks and sprains that could put you out of work for an extended period of time. By always being cautious of where you are walking, ensuring that you use handrails whenever they are available, and wearing shoes with traction, you can reduce the likelihood of an ice-related workplace injury.

Auto Accidents 

Although ice on sidewalks is dangerous and can lead to serious injuries, ice on the road can increase risk of an accident even more. Whether you are driving to commute to work each day or you operate a motor vehicle as one of your job responsibilities, learning how to drive in winter conditions is extremely important. Ice, snow, and other drivers create unpredictable situations on the road in the winter which is why taking a defensive driving class that focuses on winter weather conditions is a smart decision. Not only will this give you more confidence and comfort if you face unfavorable weather in the coming months, but it will also better prepare you if you face a dangerous situation on the road. 

Thankfully, the winter weather in Georgia is relatively mild, however, if you are injured while working, cold weather related to winter weather or otherwise, contact Poirier Law Firm today.