Winter increases the risks of New York City fall injuries, sidewalk accidents and other fall situations. Falls can be particularly dangerous for older people and are the leading cause of accidental death for the elderly. This month, the New York Department of Health is urging fall prevention and safety education.

The New York fall injury lawyers and the personal injury and wrongful death attorneys at Queller, Fisher, Washor, Fuchs & Kool fight for the rights of people injured in falls. Fall injuries, particularly among seniors, can limit independence and lead to serious health complications.

"As people age, one of their biggest concerns is losing the ability to live independently," said Health Commissioner Richard Daines. "Fall-related injuries in older adults often lead to hospitalizations, beginning the downward spiral that can result in long-term disability or death. It's important that older adults and their families learn the simple steps to reduce the risk for fall-related injuries."

Falls are the leading cause of injury deaths and hospital visits for New Yorkers 65 and older. On average, two seniors die and 350 are treated in hospitals for fall injuries every day in New York.

Each year, 900 New Yorkers aged 65 years and older will die due to a fall, and more than 125,000 will be injured severely enough to require hospital treatment. Nationwide, more than 15,000 senior adults are killed and almost 2 million seriously injured in falls, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Falls are the leading cause of traumatic brain injury. Broken bones and joints, including knees, hips and wrists, are also common injuries suffered in falls.

"Fall-related injuries in older adults are a major public health problem," said Susan Hardman, Director of the New York State Health Department's Bureau of Injury Prevention. "As baby boomers age, we likely will see a significant increase in these injuries. Fortunately, there are simple strategies for reducing the risk of falling."

To reduce your risk:

•Improve strength and balance by following a simple physical activity program.
•Have your health care provider review medications for potential side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.
•Have your vision checked; make sure prescriptions are correct and get checked for serious eye conditions, such as glaucoma or cataracts.
•Assess your home for safety, and make the necessary modifications. Common home hazards include:
?Clutter in walkways and on stairs causing tripping.
?Slippery or inconsistent flooring surfaces causing falls.
?Poor or inadequate lighting.
?Pets and pet-related objects on the floor.
?Lack of stair railings or grab bars.
?Lack of easy access to bathrooms and rugs without no-skid backing.

However, when a person is injured on business or other property -- because of wet, slippery or uneven floors; dangerous parking lots or sidewalks; faulty stairwells and handrails; or other hazards -- a New York City premise liability attorney may be able to help them seek compensation for their injuries.

More information about fall prevention in older adults is available on the DOH Web site at www.nyhealth.gov/prevention/injury_prevention