Winter in Illinois brings beautiful snow and festive scenery, but it also creates hazardous conditions for workers. Ice-covered sidewalks, snowy parking lots, and melting moisture indoors make injuries far more likely. Outdoor crews, delivery drivers, construction workers, warehouse employees, and even office staff walking from their cars face increased risks.

Slip and fall accidents are the most common winter workplace injury. They often occur on icy walkways, wet entryways, and snow-packed surfaces. These incidents can lead to fractures, torn ligaments, head injuries, and serious back problems. Employers in Illinois have a legal duty to maintain reasonably safe conditions, which includes clearing snow and ice and warning workers about slippery areas.

Common causes of winter slip and fall accidents include:

• Ice on Walkways: Nearly invisible but extremely slick
• Snow Accumulation: Can hide underlying ice
• Indoor Moisture: Melting snow from shoes creates slippery floors

Other winter hazards include:

• Cold Stress Injuries: Frostbite and hypothermia from prolonged exposure
• Vehicle Accidents: Delivery trucks, snow plows, and work vehicles sliding on ice

Winter Safety Tips:

• Walk slowly and take short, steady steps
• Wear footwear with slip-resistant soles
• Watch for black ice in shaded areas
• Keep entrances and pathways clear
• Wipe feet thoroughly when entering
• Use warning signs or cones around hazards

Should a worker experience a winter-related injury on the job, the next step is not just medical treatment but also legal support. Work injuries can lead to lost wages, medical expenses, and long-term physical limitations. Seeking guidance from an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can make a major difference in securing necessary benefits and fair compensation.

Our firm has handled more than 30,000 claims for injured workers and has obtained some of the largest settlements and awards at the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission. We understand the risks Illinois workers face during the winter, and we fight to secure the full benefits they deserve.

If you or someone you know has been hurt on the job this winter, we are ready to help. For a consultation, please call (312) 726-5567 or contact us online to learn more about your rights and options.