Winter is a cosy time of year with cool crisp sunny days, but with it, the nights are longer, and daylight becomes precious. As winter sets in, colder weather, icy pavements and shorter daylight hours can make everyday activities more hazardous. Slips, trips and falls become far more common during the winter months - and for older people in particular, the consequences can be quite serious and sometimes life-changing.
Our Personal Injury team sees a noticeable rise in accident claims during the winter season. Understanding the risks and knowing when legal help may be available can make a real difference to recovery and peace of mind.
Why winter is a high-risk time for accidents
Winter brings with it conditions that increase the likelihood of accidents both outdoors and indoors. Icy pavements, wet leaves, snowy under foot and poorly lit walkways can make walking treacherous. Inside buildings, wet floors, loose mats and inadequate handrails can also pose a danger.
For older people, balance and mobility may already be affected, and recovery from injuries can take longer. A fall that might be minor for a younger person can result in broken bones, head injuries or a loss of confidence and independence for someone older.
Common winter accidents we see
During the colder months, we frequently assist clients who have been injured in:
- Slips and falls on icy or untreated pavements
- Accidents in car parks, supermarkets or shopping centres
- Falls in residential buildings where walkways or steps have not been properly maintained
- Accidents in care homes or sheltered accommodation
- Road traffic accidents caused by poor weather or visibility.
In many cases, these accidents are preventable - and may occur because a responsible party failed to take reasonable steps to keep people safe.
Remember - an accident may not be your fault
It is a common misconception that winter accidents are ‘just one of those things that happens’. In reality, councils, businesses, landlords and care providers all have legal responsibilities to manage risks, even in cold weather.
If an accident happened because a pavement was not gritted, lighting was inadequate, handrails were missing, or hazards were left unattended, you may be entitled to claim compensation. This can help cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, loss of income and the wider impact on your quality of life.
How accidents can affect older people in winter
Beyond the physical injury, a winter accident can have a lasting emotional and practical impact. Older people may experience a loss of confidence, reduced mobility, or increased reliance on family or carers. In some cases, an accident can accelerate the need for additional care or support.
Seeking legal advice is not about blame - it is about securing the support needed to aid recovery and protect independence.
How our Personal Injury team can help
Our team will start by carefully assessing the circumstances of your accident to determine whether you have a valid claim. We will explain your legal position in clear, straightforward terms and answer any questions you may have, so you understand your options from the outset.
We will then gather and preserve the evidence needed to support your claim. This may include accident reports, photographs of the location, CCTV footage where available, witness statements and maintenance or inspection records. Collecting this evidence early is often crucial, particularly in winter accident cases where conditions can change quickly.
Medical evidence is a key part of any personal injury claim. We work closely with medical professionals to obtain detailed reports that explain the nature of your injuries, the treatment required and how the accident has affected your daily life. This allows us to fully understand the impact of the injury and pursue appropriate compensation.
Our team will seek compensation not only for pain and suffering, but also for any financial losses you have experienced. This can include loss of earnings, care and assistance costs, travel expenses, medical treatment and, where appropriate, future care or rehabilitation needs - particularly important for older clients.
Throughout the process, we handle all communication with insurers, defendants and other parties on your behalf. This reduces stress and allows you to focus on your recovery, while we work to progress your claim efficiently and keep you informed at every stage.
We are experienced in supporting older clients and their families, and we approach every case with care, patience and sensitivity. Our aim is to secure a fair outcome while ensuring you feel supported and confident throughout the process.
Taking the first step towards support
If you or a loved one has been injured in a winter accident and you believe it may have been avoidable, it is important to seek advice as soon as possible. Early guidance can help protect your rights and improve the chances of a successful claim.
The Personal Injury team at Coles Miller Solicitors is here to help you understand your options and provide the support you need during a difficult time.
Contact Coles Miller Solicitors today to speak to our Personal Injury team.
Injured? Claim Compensation – No Win, No Fee
Have you been injured in a road accident? Get expert legal advice from Coles Miller
Emily Ferris.
Emily is a Chartered Legal Executive with over 18 years’ experience in personal injury law. She has a proven track record in handling high value and complex claims, including catastrophic injury, road traffic accidents, employers’ liability and accidents involving military personnel.
Known for her technical expertise and empathetic client care, Emily is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for her clients. She is based at Coles Miller’s Fleetsbridge office.
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