Steps You Should Take to Prepare for the Winter Storm

A major winter storm is expected to bring freezing rain and snow across South Carolina early Sunday, Jan 16, according to the forecast. Cavanaugh & Thickens has pulled together a list of tips for before, during, and after the storm to help keep you and your loved ones safe.

If you or a loved one finds yourself involved in an accident or injured during this storm, please reach out to our award-winning legal team. We are available to assist you 24/7 via phone at (803) 888-2200, or simply fill out our online form and we will get in touch with you as soon as possible. Stay safe out there and enjoy the rarity of snow in SC!

Winter Storm Safety Tips

Before the storm:

• Collect rock salt to melt ice/snow and shovels.
• Prepare for possible isolation in your home: purchase food and water and fill your prescriptions.
• Prepare for possible power outages: Charge your cell phones/electronic devices, make sure you have batteries and flashlights, matches, candles, blankets, and more on hand.
• Car safety: Fill your gas tank and ensure you have the following should you need to travel: a shovel, windshield scraper, booster cables, and more.

During the storm:

• Stay inside and wear adequate clothing when outside: hats, gloves, scarves, coats, etc. to keep warm.
• Avoid overexertion when shoveling.
• Actively look for ice and avoid icy areas.
• Know the signs of frostbite: loss of feeling, white or pale appearance in extremities.
• Drive ONLY if it’s necessary and practice safe driving: decrease your speed, leave plenty of room behind vehicles, use your blinkers, etc.

After the storm:

• Listen to your local news for the latest weather updates.
• Check on your animals.
• Report power outages.
• If using alternative sources for electricity, be aware of possible carbon monoxide poisoning.

For more information on preparing for a winter storm, please visit the South Carolina Emergency Management Division website.

Common Injuries/accidents During Winter Storms:

Storms like this are rare in South Carolina, so it’s important to know what to do to keep yourself safe and how to respond if you find yourself injured or involved in an accident.

Common injuries resulting from winter storms include:

• Ankle Fractures
• Back Injuries
• Broken Bones
• Hip Fractures
• Wrist Fractures

Winter Storm Accident Statistics:

Winter storms can be dangerous for everyone but there’s an increased risk of injury and even deadly accidents for drivers. According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory, of injuries related to ice and snow, around 70% occur in automobiles. Icy road conditions are just one potential cause for an increase in automobile accidents during and after a snow/ice storm.

When a Lawyer Can Help if You’ve Been Injured:

Driver Negligence Resulting in an Automobile Accident:

There are many ways that a driver may cause an accident due to negligence, such as:

• Speeding
• Failure to maintain a safe following distance
• Failure to use turn signals
• Not using headlights
• Distracted driving, and more.

If you or a loved one was involved in an accident, we will review the specifics of your case for free and help you and your loved ones recover significant compensation for physical, financial, and emotional damages. Simply call (803) 888-2200 or fill out our online form to get started.

Property Owner Negligence Resulting in a Slip and Fall Accident:

Another leading cause of injury during winter storms is from slipping and falling on ice. These accidents can happen in parking lots or on sidewalks in commercial areas or on a homeowner’s property. Property owners have a duty to maintain proper safety measures, including during a winter storm. This can include removing snow and ice within a reasonable time, putting up signs, and more.

If you slip and fall on someone else’s property due to the owner’s negligence, contact Cavanaugh & Thickens for a free consultation to see if you’re eligible to recover significant compensation for your injuries, medical bills, pain, and suffering, and more.