The winter holidays are upon us once again, and because everyone is focused on spending time with family, it’s easy to lose focus on the hazards that surround us in our everyday environment. While you and your loved ones create new memories this year, it’s important to remain cautious when performing a variety of common holiday activities. Our Atlanta Chiropractors have highlighted a few of the most common winter holiday accidents so that you can avoid a trip to the emergency room and instead, celebrate Christmas at home.
Winter Holiday Accident Injuries
The top five winter holiday accident injuries that are treated at AICA Atlanta each year include:
- Auto accident injuries
- Slip and fall accident injuries
- Electrical shock injuries
- Back injuries
- Lacerations
Auto Accident Injuries
Studies presented by AAA show that there are more intoxicated drivers on the road during the winter holidays than any other time of the year. Office and family parties often leave those between the ages of 21 and 24 feeling confident to operate a vehicle, despite the physical impairments associated with excessive alcohol use. Studies also show that the fatality rate for auto accidents is three times higher between the hours of 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. Of course, poor weather conditions and slippery roads are also influential in the rise of auto accidents from December to January.
Slip and Fall Accidents Associated With Holiday Decorating
Over 40 percent of slip and fall accident injuries occur during the winter holidays as a result of falling down stairs, off of rooftops, and ladders. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports that close to 6,000 people are treated each year for falls that are associated with individuals trying to hang up holiday lights. Such accidents often cause bone fractures, muscle strains, and back injuries.
Electrical Shock Injuries
Over 5,000 people are treated each winter holiday season for indoor and outdoor electrical shock injuries. Most of these injuries are related to the hanging of holiday lights and faulty or damaged wiring. Electrical shock injuries tend to produce cardiac issues, thermal burns, nerve damage, and burnt tissue.
Back Injuries
Purchasing bulky items and trying to lift heavy baggage are responsible for most back injuries that occur during this time of the year. In fact, there are over 50,000 luggage-related accident injuries each year according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Body Lacerations
Package-related injuries are one of the most common conditions treated by our staff during the winter holidays. Not paying close enough attention while opening up gift packages with sharp devices causes over 6,000 laceration injuries each year.
Contact AICA Atlanta If You Should Experience One Of These Accidents
It is our holiday wish that every person throughout the greater Atlanta community will be able to avoid these accident injuries this year. However, should something happen, make sure to contact our clinic right away for treatment. Just dial (404) 889-8828 to schedule a same-day examination.