Ice and snow buildup in winter increases the likelihood of slip and fall accidents. It reduces friction on roadways, driveways, and sidewalks, posing a risk for drivers and pedestrians. When these conditions occur, you need to understand your obligation regarding ice and snow removal. In the event of an accident, find a slip and fall lawyer to evaluate your case and pursue fair compensation.
Ice and Snow Removal
Many states and cities have snow and ice removal laws, including who’s responsible for this work. Usually, property owners, whether in residential areas or businesses, are responsible for keeping these places safe. This includes clearing ice and snow from sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots. They should remove tracked-in ice and snow from lobbies and offices to prevent slip and fall accidents.
Property owners may delegate snow removal to other parties, including property managers and facility maintenance companies. In some areas, ice and snow removal from roadways and sidewalks falls under the local government. After a slip and fall accident in such areas, it can be unclear who is liable. A slip and fall lawyer will help you understand snow and ice removal policies and who is at fault.
Some property owners may include terms in the lease indicating that it’s a tenant’s responsibility to remove ice and snow. The lease often includes where and when the tenant should remove snow and ice. In case of an accident, the lawyer will inquire about the lease agreement to determine liability.
Removal Timeframes
Some state and local laws require ice and snow to be removed within a specified time. This could be a certain number of hours after snowfall or a set time of the day. Specific timeframes vary based on the location and lease agreements. Failure to remove ice or snow within the specified time frame could result in liabilities for slip and fall injuries.
Landlords and property managers should warn tenants or visitors about the dangerous situation in their properties. This may help you take precautionary measures, like wearing sturdy shoes or boots, walking cautiously, and using handrails. You should check if the property owner has cleared the snow from walkways and applied de-icing products. Warnings about road conditions may help you decide whether to install winter tires, drive slowly, and brake gently.
If the property owner or manager fails to inform you about the hazard, you can sue them after suffering an injury. You should prove that the property owner or manager failed to warn you about the hazard. An experienced lawyer can help you gather this evidence when seeking fair compensation or pursuing legal action.
Slip and Fall Accidents
The first step after a slip and fall accident is seeking immediate medical attention. The doctors will examine and treat injuries, including those that seem minor. Seeking medical attention will help you build your case. The doctor will document your injuries, which will be used when filing your claim.
If it’s a minor fall, report the accident to the property owner. Some property owners or managers may require you to write an official report indicating all the details of the accident. Take photos or videos of the surface where you fell and get the contact information of any witnesses. You should contact your attorney right after the accident to help you gather evidence and determine liability. A slip and fall attorney will handle the negotiations with the property manager when pursuing a claim.
Hire an Experienced Slip and Fall Lawyer
Slip and fall accidents due to ice and snow buildup can occur unexpectedly, leading to minor or severe injuries. If the accident happens on a sidewalk or driveway, your slip and fall attorney will help you seek fair compensation. The attorney will assess the situation to understand who is responsible for ice and snow removal. They will help you understand your rights and legal options. Contact an experienced slip and fall lawyer today to help you obtain fair compensation for your injuries.
