Dont be an accident statistic this Christmas, says Kent Lawyer

12 December 2006

With the festive season just days away, make sure you aren’t one of the Christmas accident statistics, warns Neille Ryan, personal injury lawyer at leading south east law firm Furley Page.

“Unfortunately Christmas isn’t a relaxing, happy time for some unlucky people who have to turn to their lawyer for urgent advice after a road accident or a mishap at home or at work,” he says.

Number 1 on Neille’s ‘top five’ list is the car accident. Poor weather, longer hours of darkness and tiredness all play their part but the most common cause is alcohol. The DTI’s 2006
THINK! Christmas drink drive campaign warns drivers of the risks and consequences of drink driving which kills around 600 people each year and injures thousands of others.

“Kent Police has launched a county-wide drive to keep our roads safe, promising swift action against people who put lives at risk but if you are the victim of a traffic accident don’t forget you are entitled to compensation for your injuries,” advises Neille who says the public shouldn’t be deterred by the ‘compensation culture’ myth.

Number 2 is accidents in the home. Shocks and burns from faulty Christmas tree lights are responsible for sending hundreds of us to hospital over Christmas.

Number 3 is accidents in the street. Be extra cautious when you’re carrying heavy parcels or lugging the Christmas tree to the car. It’s easy to trip on uneven pavements or slip in wet, icy weather. And as for the 66year old woman who broke her pelvis falling off the skateboard she gave her grandson, Neille cautions over enthusiasm about athletic prowess!

Number 4 is accidents at the office Christmas party. Tipsy employees can topple down stairs or lose their balance on the disco floor.

Number 5 is sporting and leisure activity accidents. Watch your step if you’re planning some pre or post-festive exercise – particularly on the ice rink or the dry ski slope.

If you are involved in an accident which you believe was someone else’s fault and need advice on making a claim call Neille Ryan on 01227 763939 or email Neille Ryan

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