Emergency room doctors have front-row seats to life’s worst moments. They treat injuries every day that could have been avoided with just a few small precautions. In a recent New York Times article, “6 Things E.R. Doctors Wish You’d Avoid,” physicians shared some habits and risks they want people to think twice about:
1. Be Careful with Knives
ER doctors say many serious hand injuries come from simple kitchen mistakes, especially when slicing bagels or avocados.
- Always use a non-slip cutting board.
- Cut away from your body, not toward your hand.
- Keep knives properly sharpened; a sharp knife is safer than a dull one that requires force.
2. Rethink the Trampoline
What seems like innocent fun can quickly turn into an ER visit. Doctors call trampolines “broken-bone factories.”
- Allow only one person to jump at a time.
- Avoid flips and somersaults.
- Supervise children closely or consider skipping trampolines altogether.
3. Be Cautious Around Dogs You Don’t Know
Most dog bites come from pets, not strays. Even the friendliest dog can react unpredictably.
- Don’t approach unfamiliar dogs, even if they seem calm.
- If you’re a dog owner, keep your pet leashed and away from strangers.
4. Always Wear a Helmet
Doctors see the difference daily between riders who wear helmets and those who don’t. It’s often the difference between a mild bruise and a brain injury.
- Use a helmet every time you bike, skateboard, or ride a scooter.
- Replace helmets after a significant impact.
- Make sure your helmet fits correctly and is certified for safety.
5. Don’t Ignore Sudden Symptoms
When your body sends a strong signal, listen.
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or confusion can signal a heart attack or stroke.
- Don’t drive yourself to the hospital; call emergency services immediately.
- The sooner you get help, the better your chances for recovery.
Why These Lessons Matter
The advice shared by ER doctors isn’t just about avoiding injuries; it’s about understanding how quickly life can change. A single careless moment, a dull knife, a risky jump, or a missing helmet can have consequences that last a lifetime. While prevention is always the goal, accidents still happen, often because someone else failed to act responsibly. That’s when legal guidance becomes critical.
At our firm, we see the other side of these stories: people facing pain, medical bills, and lost time from injuries that could have been prevented. We help clients hold negligent parties accountable and secure the compensation they need to recover physically, financially, and emotionally.
If you or someone you love has been injured due to another person’s carelessness or if you want to know what steps to take after an accident, visit our Personal Injury FAQ for answers, resources, and support from our experienced legal team.