injuries

Icy conditions can lead to serious injuries

November 26, 2014 | Kraft Davies Olsson PLLC

Slipping on an icy sidewalk in Washington could result in a variety of injuries. A common injury is a muscle strain or sprain that is generally the result of an individual trying to catch him or herself. In most cases, these injuries can be treated by rest or by putting heat on the injured muscle. However, those experiencing severe pain are advised to see a doctor.

Those who feel tingling or weakness in their legs could be suffering from a herniated disc, an injury that commonly results from years of wear. Those who fall sufficiently hard enough on the ice could also sustain in such an injury. The good news is that this type of injury can be treated without the need for surgery. Painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs and muscle relaxers may be enough to help overcome a herniated disc.

Tailbone and spinal cord injuries are also not out of the question after making hard contact with an icy surface. While tailbone injuries are painful, they rarely require anything other than rest to recover from. Those who experience tingling, loss of movement or numbness should not move. Instead, it is important to get medical help as soon as possible to lower the chances of paralysis resulting from a serious injury to the spinal cord itself.

Summer is almost here: Stay safe while having fun

May 23, 2014 | Kraft Davies Olsson PLLC

Memorial Day Weekend signals the unofficial beginning of summer in the U.S. You and your loved ones may be planning a party this weekend or you may be choosing to wait until later in the summer to host a fun gathering. In either event, it is important to keep a few tips in mind anytime you have guests over during the summer. Failure to do so could result in harm to you or your guests. And depending on the circumstance, your guests could potentially hold you liable for their harm under the theory of premises liability.

If you have a pool or will be setting up any sort of water-related fun for kids and kids at heart, it is important to take special care. Children all over America experience injuries even when they are being supervised at residential and public pools.

It is generally not idea to make your own slide or diving board, nor is it a good idea to “improvise” these devices as anyone harmed on your homemade slide or board could sue you for damages related to that harm. Instead, purchase a slide or board and make sure that it has not been recalled.

What can happen if a worker is injured on your property

September 27, 2013 | Kraft Davies Olsson PLLC

In Washington, property owners have a duty to keep their property safe and can be sued based on the theory of premises liability if injuries do occur due to unsafe conditions. This is not to say that such cases are simple. Premises liability laws vary from state-to-state. In the State of Washington, determining liability can be partially based on the reasons for why an individual is on the property to begin with.

Many property owners are not aware that they could be sued in the event a contractor is injured on the property while performing work on the premises. Liability is dependent on a number of factors, but it would be best in any circumstances to warn any contractors coming on the property of potential hazards.

A property owner’s exposure to liability can be dependent upon: