Outdoor Dining Injuries: Avoiding Al Fresco Accidents
Warm temperatures have hit the Midwest, with several months of gorgeous weather to come. This means that several restaurants have opened up their outdoor patios and other al fresco seating areas. The Kansas personal injury lawyers at Patterson Legal Group hope that you take advantage of these unique dining experiences, but please make sure to do so safely. To help you do so, our team has assembled a guide to help you and your family avoid outdoor dining injuries.
Four Accidents to Avoid While Eating Outdoors
Eating outdoors can make for an unforgettable experience. Enjoying a lovely mimosa brunch on a patio with friends while the sun is shining or watching the sun set during a romantic dinner at a beautiful outdoor restaurant in Wichita can make for a truly memorable meal. Unfortunately, outdoor restaurants also have unique dangers that can lead to injury. Below are four outdoor dining injuries to be mindful of and how to avoid them.
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Spilled liquids are one of the leading causes of restaurant injuries. This is a concern for outdoor dining as well, but al fresco restaurants can have additional ways to cause a slip and fall accident.
A quick sunshower on an otherwise clear day can lead to slippery surfaces. Some outdoor eateries have decorative trees, with unmanaged roots. Additionally, some patios have outdoor string lighting, with cables that aren’t always properly managed. Lastly, outdoor surfaces may crack or change shape due to temperature fluctuations. Any of these things can cause a slip, trip, or fall.
If you’re eating at an outdoor restaurant or enjoying a barbecue in someone’s backyard then be sure to scan the path ahead of you for any obstacles.
Related content: Avoiding Burn Injuries and Grilling Accidents
Cuts and Lacerations
For some people, hot weather means a change in footwear. It’s common to switch out your sturdy boots and heavy shoes for flip-flops and open-toed sandals when temperatures rise. Unfortunately, this can lead to outdoor dining injuries caused by broken glass and other sharp objects commonly found at restaurants. In extreme cases, cuts can be so deep that they cause soft tissue damage.
In addition to keeping an eye out for sharp objects, be sure to keep your feet safely under the table while you’re eating. As a courtesy to your fellow diners, if you spot broken glass or a potentially dangerous sharp object then be sure to notify restaurant staff immediately.
Broken Bones
Outdoor dining areas tend to have harder flooring than indoor ones. Furthermore, some patio furniture isn’t as sturdy as restaurant furniture used indoors. This can lead to bone fractures from slipping onto cement while walking or falling out of your chair.
Don’t be in a rush to enjoy your outdoor dining experience. Walk to your table carefully, and be sure to get a feel for your table and chair to make sure that they’re stable.
Related content: Five Ways to Avoid Heat Illness
Heat Illness
Temperatures in Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma can exceed 90F in July and August. This makes you more susceptible to dehydration, heat stroke, and other heat illnesses. Many people underestimate the effects of heat illness, thinking that heat exhaustion is a minor ailment. In addition to causing serious health issues, heat illness can lead to death. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 1,300 Americans die every year due to extreme heat.
Staying hydrated goes a long way towards preventing heat illnesses. Be sure to drink plenty of water, especially if you’re drinking alcoholic or highly caffeinated beverages. Wear loose-fitting clothes made from materials that wick sweat away to help keep your body cool. Lastly, try to avoid outdoor dining during peak temperatures.
Contact an Outdoor Dining Injuries Lawyer
The team at Patterson Legal Group hopes that you get to enjoy many outdoor meals in the months ahead. Please use this guide to educate your family and friends about different outdoor dining injuries. If you were hurt while eating outdoors and believe that your injuries were caused by another party’s negligence or recklessness then contact us for immediate assistance.
You can reach Patterson Legal Group by phone at (888) 687-2400 and online through our secure contact form or connecting with our LiveChat representatives. Our team of accomplished trial lawyers has recovered more than $250-million in settlements for injury victims in Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. Don’t forget that Patterson Legal Group works under a “no win, no fee” promise, so you will not pay a cent unless a settlement has been recovered on your behalf. Connect with us today to begin your free consultation.
