The Hidden Dangers of Holiday Decorating: How it Could Lead to a Personal Injury Claim

The holiday season is a time for joy, family, and festive decorations, but what many don't realize is that decorating your home for the holidays can actually pose significant risks. Each year, thousands of people end up in the emergency room due to holiday decorating accidents, from falls to electrical shocks, and these incidents can sometimes lead to personal injury claims. In this blog post, we will explore the hidden dangers of holiday decorating and how they can impact your legal rights, and offer tips for safer decoration practices.

The Risks of Holiday Ladder Falls

One of the most common injuries during the holiday season comes from falls while using a ladder to hang lights, ornaments, or other decorations. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that over 160,000 people are treated annually for ladder-related injuries, many of which occur during the holiday season. The risks are particularly high if the ladder is improperly set up or if people neglect basic safety precautions, such as ensuring the ladder is on level ground or using a sturdy, reliable ladder. Roof falls pose an even greater risk, as people often attempt to hang lights or decoration without proper safety precautions. These falls can result in severe injuries like broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord injuries, or even death.

Personal Injury Legal Implications: If you fall from a ladder while decorating, the injuries could range from sprains and fractures to more severe trauma like head injuries or spinal damage. If the fall was caused by a defective ladder or unsafe installation practices, you may have grounds for a product liability claim or an injury claim against a property owner, particularly if the accident occurred on someone else's property.

Falling Decorations and Heavy Objects

Not all holiday decorating involves ladders. Many people adorn their homes with heavy decorations like wreaths, garlands, and large holiday figurines. Unfortunately, if these objects are not securely fastened, they can fall and cause injuries. For instance, a large decoration falling from a high shelf could strike someone on the head, leading to head trauma, concussions, or other serious injuries.

Personal Injury Legal Implications: In this case, an injury claim might be possible if the person responsible for the decoration failed to properly secure the object or if the property had hazardous conditions that contributed to the accident. Premises liability laws can apply here, especially if the accident occurred in a public place or a business with inadequate safeguards for decorating.

Electrical Hazards: A Closer Look at Holiday Lighting

Holiday lights are one of the most iconic parts of seasonal decorating, from twinkling tree lights to the elaborate displays on homes and lawns. However, these festive lights can quickly become a source of danger if proper precautions aren't taken. Each year, many people suffer from electrical shocks or even fires related to faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or improper installation of decorations.

Key Electrical Dangers

Faulty or Outdated Lights: Many people bring out old holiday lights that have been stored in attics or basements. These lights can have damaged cords or exposed wires, increasing the risk of electrical shock or fire. If you noticed frayed wiring, flickering bulbs, or visible damage, it's best to replace the lights rather than risk an injury.
Overloaded Circuits: Overloading electrical outlets or power strips with too many decorations can cause overheating, short circuits, or even fires. It's essential to use lights and electrical decorations within their power limits and avoid daisy-chaining multiple power strips. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations for maximum wattage and ensure you're not overloading the circuits.
Improper Outdoor Setup: When hanging lights outside, exposure to weather conditions like rain or snow can damage the lights or wires, increasing the risk of electric shock. Using lights rated for outdoor use is crucial to ensure they are built to withstand the elements. Additionally, using non-weatherproof extension cords can lead to electrical short circuits or fires if water seeps into the wiring.

Personal Injury Legal Implications: If you or a loved one suffers an electric shock or burns due to faulty holiday lights, there could be a valid personal injury claim if negligence was involved. For example, if the lights were defectively manufactured or sold by a retailer, a product liability claim might apply. If an accident occurs due to faulty wiring, the property owner or installer may be held liable under premises liability laws, especially if they failed to properly maintain safe electrical setups or ignored electrical hazards.

The Importance of Electrical Inspections and Professional Help

If you're unsure about the safety of your decorations or the electrical systems in your home, consider consulting with an electrician, especially if you plan on setting up large outdoor displays. Electrical inspection before the holiday season can ensure that your wiring and outlets are up to code and safe to use for decorations.

Injuries Related to Fire Hazards

Whether it's candles lighting up a festive centerpiece or a Christmas tree adored with ornaments, fire hazards are another concern during the holidays. In fact, fires caused by improperly disposed of Christmas trees or left-over candles are common, leading to burn injuries or smoke inhalation.

Personal Injury Legal Implications: If you sustain injuries from a fire caused by a decorative item, there may be grounds for a claim if you can prove that the cause of the fire was a defect in the product, negligence in handling the decoration, or improper safety standards at a business. Fire-related injuries can lead to severe consequences, including third degree burns, permanent scarring, or even death.

Preventing Holiday Decorating Injuries

While decorating can be a lot of fun, it is essential to prioritize safety to avoid the risks associated with holiday decorating. Here are some safety tips to reduce the chance of injury:

Use the Right Ladder: Make sure the ladder is sturdy and place on level ground. Always have a spotter if possible.
Avoid Roof Falls: Never climb onto the roof without proper safety gear, and consider hiring a professional for high placements to reduce fall risks.
Secure Heavy Decorations: Always fasten decorations properly and avoid overloading shelves or hooks.
Check Lights for Damage: Inspect all electrical decorations for exposed wires, fraying, or damage before use.
Be Cautious with Candles: Never leave candles unattended, and always place them on non-flammable surfaces.

Conclusion

While the holidays should be a time of celebration, it's important to recognize the potential hazards that come with decorating. If you or someone you know is injured while decorating, the physical, emotional, and financial consequences can be significant. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, there could be legal avenues available to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to a business or property owner's negligence with their holiday decorations, or a defective item, it's important to seek legal representation from an experienced personal injury attorney. At Vollor Law Firm, P.A., we have the knowledge and expertise to help you get the compensation you deserve. Go with a firm that has a history of success handling personal injury cases. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.