3 Avoidable Thanksgiving Injuries Caused by Negligence

• Common Thanksgiving injuries resulting from negligence typically include car wrecks, fires, and slip and fall incidents.
• If you’re involved in one, see a doctor immediately, even if you don’t think your injury is severe.
• There are several steps you can take to prevent Thanksgiving injuries from occurring.
• Speak with an attorney to seek compensation for an accident caused by another’s negligence.

Thanksgiving is when families and friends come together to celebrate, share a meal, and express gratitude. It’s a joyful occasion, but Thanksgiving injuries due to negligence can ruin a beautiful holiday. Three types of personal injury accidents – car accidents, fires, and slip and fall accidents – are the primary culprits.

Jones Law Group attorneys aren’t just legal experts. They’re also tireless, passionate advocates for justice. If you turn to us, we guarantee we’ll do everything possible to help you obtain maximum compensation. Schedule a free consultation by contacting us online or calling 727-571-1333.

The Most Common Thanksgiving Injuries

Thanksgiving negligence can cast a shadow over the occasion, leading to unfortunate and often avoidable injuries. Three of the most common causes of Thanksgiving injuries resulting from negligence include the following:

Car Accidents

Vehicles fill the roads on this holiday. While the intention is to reach family and friends safely, these roads can become treacherous when drivers engage in negligent behavior. This behavior includes impaired driving, often due to the consumption of alcohol or other substances, as well as speeding, distraction, or even fatigue behind the wheel.

Thanksgiving car wrecks claimed 545 lives across the country from 2016 to 2020, with 31% of those fatalities resulting from drunk driving accidents. 

Fire Hazards

Thanksgiving is synonymous with the comforting aromas of a Thanksgiving feast, which places the kitchen at the heart of the celebration. Elaborate cooking, roasting turkeys, and decorative displays are integral to the holiday spirit, but these traditions also introduce fire hazards into the home. Negligence in the kitchen or with holiday decorations can quickly turn joy into tragedy.

An average of 2,300 home fires occurred on Thanksgiving in the U.S. from 2017 to 2019. These fires led to 25 injuries and, tragically, five deaths.

One of the leading causes of Thanksgiving accidents is inadequate supervision while cooking. As the Thanksgiving meal takes shape, multiple dishes cook simultaneously, and multitasking can lead to inattention. Grease fires, for instance, can erupt if oil overheats and ignites, and if not addressed promptly, they can become unmanageable. 

Misuse of kitchen appliances, such as deep fryers, can also result in severe burns and fires. Faulty wiring in holiday decorations can lead to house fires as well, posing a risk not only to property but also to the lives of those present.

Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall accidents account for more than 20% of emergency room visits in the U.S. yearly. Thanksgiving festivities can easily result in devastating accidents, particularly if homeowners fail to provide a safe environment.

Negligence in maintaining walkways, for instance, can result in injuries. Uneven pavement, whether in driveways or walkways, can pose a significant risk of tripping and falling. Cleaning spills promptly is essential, as any moisture on floors can become a slipping hazard. 

Many retail stores choose to open on Thanksgiving night, giving customers a chance to buy their Christmas presents and avoid the Black Friday crush. When employees fail to clean up spills or clear aisles of obstructions, accidents can happen. These accidents can lead to injuries ranging from sprains and fractures to more severe issues like head trauma or spinal injuries. 

Steps to Take if You’re Involved in a Thanksgiving Accident

Being involved in a Thanksgiving accident can be distressing, and the proper steps are crucial to ensuring your well-being and safeguarding your legal interests. Here are the key actions to consider:

• Seek medical attention: Prompt medical care can make a significant difference in your recovery. See a doctor even if you don’t think your injury is severe.
• Document the incident: Gather evidence related to the accident. This evidence may include taking photos of the scene or securing witness statements.
• Report to authorities: In some cases, reporting the incident to the relevant authorities is necessary, especially in car accidents. Contact the police to document the event and ensure a proper investigation.
• Contact an attorney: If your Thanksgiving accident resulted from another person’s negligence, speak with a personal injury attorney. They can assess the merits of your case and help you understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation. An attorney can also obtain critical evidence, such as surveillance camera footage.

How to Prevent Thanksgiving Accidents and Injuries

Preventing Thanksgiving accidents and injuries is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday. Here are practical steps to minimize risks:

Car Safety

If you’re traveling by car for Thanksgiving, maintain your vehicle, follow safe driving practices, and avoid impaired or distracted driving. Plan your route and carry an emergency kit in your vehicle.

Fire Safety

In the kitchen, maintain constant supervision while cooking. Keep flammable items, such as kitchen towels and oven mitts, away from stovetops. Regularly check and test smoke alarms and have a working fire extinguisher within easy reach.

Home Safety

Prevent slip and fall accidents by ensuring your home is well-lit. Clear walkways of obstructions and repair uneven surfaces. Promptly clean up spills and use non-slip mats in areas where water or food spills are likely.

Contact an Attorney if Your Thanksgiving Injuries Occurred Because of Another Person’s Negligence

If Thanksgiving injuries result from the negligence of another party, it’s essential to be aware of your legal options. Consulting a skilled, experienced lawyer can help you understand whether you have a valid case and how to proceed.

A Jones Law Group attorney can answer your questions, advocate for your rights, and hold the negligent parties accountable for their actions. Please use our online form or call 727-571-1333 for a free evaluation of your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I ensure my house is safe for guests to prevent slip and fall accidents?

To make your home safe for guests and prevent Thanksgiving injuries, clear walkways of obstacles and make sure there’s plenty of lighting. Promptly clean up spills, and use non-slip mats in areas where spills are likely. Repair any uneven surfaces that may pose a tripping hazard.

What precautions should I take if I’m traveling by car for Thanksgiving?

If you’re traveling by car, keep your car well-maintained and practice safe driving habits. Avoid impaired or distracted driving, plan your route, and have an emergency kit in your vehicle.

Can I take legal action if a loved one suffers an injury on Thanksgiving because of someone else’s negligence?

Yes, you can take legal action if you suffer Thanksgiving injuries due to another’s negligence. A skilled lawyer will help you explore your legal options and determine the best action for seeking compensation and justice.