Common Winter Injuries in Iowa

Accidents and injuries happen all year long, but winter weather brings a unique set of challenges and hazards. Snow, sleet, and ice can create dangerous conditions for walking, driving, and recreating.

We’ll discuss some of the most common winter injuries in Iowa and how to prevent them.

Five Common Iowa Winter Accidents

Snow shoveling accidents

Cold weather often brings heavy snow, and with that comes the unfortunate necessity of snow removal. Many home and business owners opt to shovel their driveways and walkways themselves in the interest of saving money.

Shoveling snow is a strenuous activity, and not everyone maintains the level of fitness necessary for the endeavor. In addition to potentially serious injuries, shoveling snow has been known to lead to heart attacks.

Winter sport accidents

While Iowa isn’t exactly renowned for its downhill skiing scene, there are plenty of ski areas, sledding hills, and ice skating rinks frequented by locals in the winter months. Participating in winter activities is a wonderful way to spend the season, but these sports are not without their risks.

Frostbite

Overexposure to cold temperatures can lead to frostbite and hypothermia, two serious conditions that require medical attention. Hypothermia occurs when a person’s body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. It is a medical emergency—if you believe someone is suffering from hypothermia, take them to an emergency room as soon as possible.

Frostbite, on the other hand, affects the skin and tissues of the body. If a person’s skin is exposed to below-freezing temperatures for extended periods of time, it can permanently damage their tissue. Mild frostbite (sometimes called frostnip) can typically be treated at home, but moderate to severe cases require medical care.

Slip-and-fall accidents

Icy walkways are a serious wintertime hazard, especially because ice can be difficult to see. Falls are one of the leading causes of head injuries in the United States, and they are especially dangerous for adults over the age of 65. 

Car accidents

Driving in winter weather conditions can be incredibly dangerous. Heavy snowfall can limit visibility and lead to rear-end collisions or rollover accidents if a driver accidentally leaves the roadway.

Even when skies are sunny, black ice may be present on the road. A driver who hits a patch of black ice can lose control of their vehicle, creating a hazard for everyone on the road.

Most Common Injuries From Winter Accidents

Winter accident injuries can range from very mild to life-threatening, depending on the circumstances of the accident. Some of the most common winter injuries include:

• Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
• Neck and back injuries
• Broken bones and joint dislocations
• Ligament tears
• Muscle strains and sprains
• Lacerations and bruises

Winter Injury Prevention

To keep yourself safe this winter season, use the following safety tips:

• Stay aware: Keep an eye out for surfaces that might be slippery and avoid them if possible.
• Tread carefully: If the ground might be slick, take short, careful steps. Avoid running or turning quickly.
• Wear appropriate footwear: Wearing sturdy shoes with slip-resistant soles can keep you upright. Shoes with worn treads are more likely to lose traction on slick surfaces.
• Prep your car for winter: Check your tire tread and fluid levels at the beginning of the season. Keep a winter emergency kit in your car.
• Travel smart: Avoid traveling during winter storms unless absolutely required. It’s better to miss an activity than get in an accident due to unsafe conditions.
• Use protective gear: Wearing the appropriate gear when participating in winter sports can lower your risk of injury. Whether you’re snowboarding or cross-country skiing, always be sure to protect your head, eyes, and extremities.
• Know your limits: Don’t attempt activities or chores that you don’t have the fitness for. Consider hiring someone to shovel your property.
• Take breaks: Avoid staying out in the cold for too long. Take regular breaks and pay attention to how you’re feeling. If you feel shortness of breath or a tightness in your chest, seek medical attention.
• Prioritize your health: If you believe you may be injured, seek medical attention. Depending on the severity and type of injury, you may need to go to an urgent care facility or emergency room. If your injury is non-emergent, you should still make an appointment with your primary care provider.

Injured? Call The Iowa Advocates

Even when you do everything right, accidents can happen. Your accident may not have been your fault, but now you’ve been left to pick up the pieces. When dealing with physical pain, emotional distress, and extensive medical bills, it’s easy to become frustrated and overwhelmed. 

Whether you’ve suffered a winter sports injury or you were involved in a motor vehicle crash, if your injuries are the result of another person’s negligence, you may be able to recover your financial damages. A personal injury attorney with The Advocates can help you determine if you have a case.

The Advocates understand what you’re going through after your accident—we’ve helped thousands of injury victims in a wide variety of cases. We will walk you through the claims process, answering your questions and providing updates on your case all along the way.

Your Advocate will build your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and help you and your family access the resources you need in the aftermath of your accident. 

Contact us today for a free case evaluation—you’ll be connected to a real attorney who will discuss your potential case with you absolutely risk-free. You deserve a legal team who makes your needs a priority. You deserve an Advocate.