The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. Streets are adorned with twinkling lights, families gather to share meals, and Fort Worth transforms into a winter wonderland.
However, amid the festivities, the holidays can also increase accidents and injuries. From busy shopping centers to icy roadways, holiday hazards abound. For many, an unexpected accident can turn a season of cheer into a stressful and painful ordeal.
Understanding the most common accidents during the holidays can help you stay vigilant and keep your family safe. If you or a loved one suffers an injury during this festive time, contacting a trusted personal injury lawyer in Fort Worth can make all the difference in protecting your rights and securing compensation.
Car Accidents Surge with Holiday Travel
With increased travel during the holidays, car accidents are among the most common causes of injuries. According to the National Safety Council, over 35,000 people were injured in motor vehicle crashes during the December holidays in 2022. Fort Worth’s busy highways and intersections become particularly dangerous during peak travel times.
Texas law requires drivers to carry liability insurance to cover damages caused by accidents, but navigating insurance claims can be complex. Many holiday collisions result from distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence of alcohol.
If you’re involved in a car accident, contacting a Fort Worth injury attorney can help you understand your options and hold negligent parties accountable.
Slip-and-Fall Accidents in Crowded Spaces
Shopping malls and holiday markets are prime locations for slip-and-fall accidents. Crowded aisles, spilled beverages, and wet floors from rainy or icy weather create hazardous conditions for shoppers.
Under Texas’s premises liability laws, property owners have a duty to keep their premises reasonably safe for visitors. However, proving negligence can be challenging without strong evidence.
If you experience a slip-and-fall injury, it’s crucial to document the scene, gather witness information, and seek medical attention. The best Fort Worth injury law firm can help you build a strong case to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
Burn Injuries from Festive Decorations
Holiday decorations, while beautiful, can pose fire risks. Faulty Christmas lights, unattended candles, and overloaded electrical outlets contribute to thousands of fires nationwide during the holiday season. According to the National Fire Protection Association, U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 835 home structure fires annually that begin with holiday decorations.
In Fort Worth, the Texas Department of Insurance emphasizes the importance of fire safety during the holidays. If a defective product causes a fire-related injury, you may have a claim under Texas product liability laws. An experienced injury lawyer in Fort Worth can guide you through the process of holding manufacturers accountable for unsafe products.
Pedestrian Accidents on Crowded Streets
Holiday parades, events, and shopping trips bring more pedestrians to Fort Worth’s streets. Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents increase during the holidays due to distracted drivers, poor visibility, and overcrowded crosswalks. In 2022, Texas recorded over 5,300 pedestrian accidents, many occurring during the holidays.
Drivers in Texas are required to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, but failure to do so often leads to severe injuries. A personal injury law firm in Fort Worth can help you seek compensation and justice if you or a loved one is struck by a vehicle.
Alcohol-Related Incidents and Dram Shop Liability
Holiday parties often lead to an uptick in alcohol consumption. While enjoying festive drinks is part of the season’s charm, it also contributes to dangerous situations like drunk driving accidents and alcohol-related injuries. Texas has strict laws against driving under the influence, with offenders facing penalties, including license suspension and hefty fines.
Additionally, Texas’s Dram Shop Act holds bars and restaurants liable if they overserve alcohol to someone who then causes harm to others. If you’re injured by an intoxicated individual, a skilled Fort Worth injury attorney can investigate whether a third party may share liability for your damages.
Children’s Injuries from Holiday Toys
Holiday gift-giving is a cherished tradition, but defective toys or products can harm children. In 2021, the Consumer Product Safety Commission reported over 150,000 toy-related injuries treated in emergency rooms nationwide. Choking hazards, sharp edges, and toxic materials are common issues.
Texas product liability laws protect consumers from harmful products, allowing injured individuals to file claims against manufacturers, distributors, or retailers. If your child suffers an injury due to a faulty toy, working with the best Fort Worth injury law firm ensures your case is handled with care and expertise.
Stay Safe This Holiday Season
While the holidays bring unique hazards, staying aware and taking precautions can reduce your risk of accidents. Be mindful of your surroundings, avoid distractions, and prioritize safety during holiday activities. However, if an accident does occur, seeking prompt legal advice can help protect your rights.
At Patterson Law Group, we understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate the aftermath of an injury during the holidays. As a leading personal injury law firm in Fort Worth, we are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing.
Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can assist you.
