Preventing Accidents While Enjoying the Outdoors This Winter

Washington and Oregon are both known for their fun and adventurous outdoor activities. If you live in one of these states, the chances are that you will likely take some time this winter to get out there and enjoy what the great outdoors has to offer. While it is always a good idea to get some fresh air, move your body, and clear your mind, you must remember that outdoor activities also come with a risk of accidents and injuries.

What types of outdoor activities are popular in the winter near Vancouver, WA and Portland, OR?

There are so many different types of outdoor activities that are popular near Vancouver, WA, and Portland, OR, during the winter months. Whether you are looking for an activity for your family or to do by yourself, these areas have a little something for everyone. Here are a few of the most popular outdoor activities that many people will be taking part in this winter:

• Hiking
• Skiing
• Snowboarding
• Snowshoeing
• Ice skating
• Dog sledding
• Snowmobiling
• Snow tubing
• Snow camping
• Sledding
• Pond skimming

The most common causes of outdoor accidents

Our personal injury lawyers help clients injured in accidents investigate the cause, identify who might be liable, and fight for compensation. Below are some of the most common causes of outdoor accidents:

• Negligence: When an accident involves negligence, this means that the individual may not have been properly supervised while doing the activity nor warned about any risks or dangers that could occur. It also means that there is a possibility that the company or employees completely ignored certain safety laws or regulations that are put in place to keep individuals safe and harm-free.
• Inadequate security: If the activity took place at a facility, park, trail, or any other location owned or operated by a person or company, inadequate security could have played a role in the accident. This means that the facility or area lacked certain protections to keep visitors safe, such as surveillance video, security guards, lighting, or even alarm systems. Without the proper security measures, criminals may feel comfortable attacking or hurting someone visiting or participating in an activity.
• Defective or malfunctioning equipment or parts: Defective or malfunctioning equipment or parts are a very common cause of outdoor accidents. This can either happen because the items or equipment became old and worn down or the manufacturer made a mistake or error when creating the item or equipment. Any time that you use an item or piece of equipment for an outdoor activity, it is crucial that you double-check every part of it to make sure it performs as it is supposed to and there are no visible signs of wear and tear or defects.
• Unsafe or hazardous premises: If you are participating in an activity that takes place on another person’s or company’s property, the owner is responsible for maintaining reasonably safe premises. This means that if you become injured or hurt because the premises are unsafe or hazardous in any way, the property owner could be liable. They must make sure that all areas of their property are hazard-free at all times, including the parking lot, walkways, sidewalks, steps, and more. Slip and fall accidents are very common on other people’s property during the winter months because of the ice and snow.

How can your Vancouver, WA, attorneys help with my case?

If you’ve been injured in an outdoor accident this winter, the attorneys at Philbrook Law Office are here to provide comprehensive legal support. We understand how overwhelming it can be to recover from an injury while navigating the complexities of a personal injury claim. Here’s how our team can assist you:

• We thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your accident. This includes collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, analyzing safety protocols, and reviewing any defective equipment or hazardous property conditions that may have contributed to your injury.
• Determining who is responsible for your injuries is another important step. Whether it’s a property owner, an equipment manufacturer, or a negligent party, our attorneys work to identify all liable parties to ensure you pursue the compensation you deserve.
• Our legal team evaluates the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other losses you’ve incurred. This comprehensive approach ensures no aspect of your claim is overlooked.
• Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts, but we won’t let them undervalue your claim. Our attorneys have years of experience negotiating with insurance adjusters to secure fair settlements that reflect the true value of your injuries.
• If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial. Our skilled litigators will advocate for your rights and present a compelling case to ensure you receive the justice you deserve.

By entrusting your case to our experienced legal team, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities. We’re committed to keeping you informed and supported every step of the way.

Tips to help you stay safe in the outdoors this winter

The following are a few tips to help you stay safe in the outdoors this winter:

1. Make sure you wear warm and layered clothing: It is critical that you wear warm and layered clothing before going anywhere or participating in any outdoor activity this winter. Although you may be doing something that requires a lot of physical activity, you should still make sure you are wearing a coat, gloves, a scarf, and a hat.
2. Check the weather forecast before you go anywhere: Before you go anywhere, you should check the weather forecast. If there is a winter storm on its way, you may want to reconsider or postpone your plans.
3. Be very careful and cautious around ice and snow: No matter where you go or what type of activity you take part in, there is a good chance that you will see ice and snow this time of year. You should be cautious when walking on snowy hiking trails, when snowboarding across icy patches, or even when snowshoeing on icy terrain.
4. Always take the essential items with you: If possible, you should always consider taking the essential items with you, which are water, a charged cellular device, and a snack. Regardless of whether you are going hiking, skiing, or ice skating, you want to make sure you have these items to stay hydrated and to get in touch with someone in case of an emergency.
5. Thoroughly look over your equipment and products: Before you use any equipment or product, thoroughly look over it to make sure it is in good condition and there are no signs of flaws or defects. If you notice any tears or holes or the product is not working as expected, you should stop using it right away. Instead, let the owner know about the issues or purchase a new product before participating in the outdoor activity.
6. Ask questions and trust your gut: If you have any questions related to the activity, never hesitate to ask a worker or someone nearby. If you do not feel comfortable doing something, do not force yourself to. Just because others are doing certain tricks or taking risks does not mean that you have to follow in their path. Your gut usually warns you about potential danger well beforehand, helping you avoid a serious and life-changing accident.

The Vancouver, WA personal injury lawyers at Philbrook Law Office have over 20 years of experience helping those who have been injured while enjoying the great outdoors. If you have recently suffered injuries in an accident that occurred while participating in an outdoor activity, please call our office or submit our contact form to schedule a free consultation today. Our firm welcomes you to visit any of our three locations, which are in Vancouver, WA, Battle Ground, WA, and Portland, OR.