Everyone loves to tour a winery—learning how your favorite sipper comes to fruition, taking an inspiring walk along the vineyards, and of course, having a drink or two or three.
But even in the idyllic settings of Napa or Bordeaux, accidents can happen. At Morgan & Morgan, we're here to ensure your winery visit is memorable for all the right reasons. Let’s explore common injuries at wineries, how to stay safe, and what to do if things go awry.
Sip, Slip, and Fall: Common Winery Injuries
Unlike your favorite Pinot noir, not every winery experience goes down smoothly, and sometimes the consequences of a vineyard visit are greater than just hiccups and hangovers. Here are the most common mishaps that may occur among the vines.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Wine-tasting rooms and cellars often have slick surfaces, especially if there’s been a spill. Keep an eye out for wet floors and uneven surfaces. You can even opt for footwear with good traction. High heels and slippery sandals? Maybe save those for a wine tasting in a restaurant.
Also, while easier said than done, try to stay sober-ish. Enjoy your wine, but remember, the more you drink, the more likely you are to lose your balance.
Trip Hazards
Winery tours often take you through vineyards and production areas where uneven ground and equipment abound. Stay on the designated paths and avoid venturing into restricted areas. Be mindful of any obstacles, like hoses, crates, and other equipment that might be in your path.
Allergic Reactions
Wineries can expose you to various allergens, from bee stings to sulfites in the wine. Carry any necessary allergy medications, like your EpiPen or antihistamines. Also, don’t be shy to ask about ingredients. Everyone else on the tour will be asking dumb questions, so why not ask one to be safe! When in doubt, ask your host about potential allergens in the wine or food pairings.
Workers’ Compensation: The Grapes of Responsibility
It’s not just visitors who can get injured; winery workers are at risk, too. From vineyard laborers to tasting room staff, the wine industry involves various tasks that can lead to injuries, such as repetitive strain injuries from bottling, labeling, and other repetitive tasks. Heavy lifting and machinery accidents also pose risks of harm to those on the job.
Any of these factors can lead to serious injuries if safety protocols aren’t followed or if winery management or owners have neglected to take the proper precautions for all staff.
If you’re a winery worker and get injured on the job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation. If that’s the case, report the injury immediately to your employer, seek medical attention, and file a workers’ comp claim. Working with a legal expert can also ensure your claim is filed correctly and promptly.
When to Call Morgan & Morgan
Accidents happen, but if you find yourself injured at a winery, here’s when to consider reaching out to Morgan & Morgan:
- Negligence: If your injury was due to the winery’s negligence, such as unmarked hazards or inadequate safety measures, you might have a case.
- Workers’ Compensation Issues: If you’re having trouble getting your workers’ comp claim approved or your benefits are insufficient, we can help.
Serious Injuries: For severe injuries that result in significant medical bills, lost wages, or long-term disability, it’s crucial to have legal support.
We’re Here to Help, 24/7
Whether visiting a winery or working at one, Morgan & Morgan can help if you experience a personal injury because of someone else’s negligence. Learning about wine—and tasting it—should be a fun and exhilarating experience, but if something goes wrong, we’re here to help you fight to make it right.