Cold weather accompanied by ice, snow and other types of precipitation can be dangerous when it creates slippery conditions. In fact, slip-and-fall accidents can lead to brain injuries and head trauma.
Here are some ways in which you can keep yourself and others safe from slipping and falling this winter.
Clear walkways as soon as feasible
You do not need to go outside in the middle of a snowstorm or ice storm to clear your sidewalk, but do so as soon as safely possible after the precipitation stops.
Mend any areas you have neglected
In winter, people tend to dress in bulky clothing. They are less mobile and less likely to see the hazards where are they are going. In fact, people in winter can be more susceptible to uneven pavement, torn carpeting and poorly maintained staircases for this reason. If you have problem spots such as these in your business or in your home where people visit frequently, it is a good idea to take care of them.
Visitors who sustain an injury must show that there was a hazardous condition, that it caused their injury and that the owner of the property knew about the hazard and did nothing, or should have known and did not issue adequate warnings.
Proceed with caution and think longer term
When there is snow, ice or even rain on the ground, people are expected to take reasonable precautions. Thus, the bar can be higher for proving a slip-and-fall case in winter than, say, in the spring. If the sidewalk appeared icy, should someone have attempted to walk on it in the first place?
The law is full of nuances, which is why it is important to document the premises if possible when an accident occurs. If you are the one who suffers an injury because someone else did not take the precautions you did, seek medical attention to establish a record. Also, try to take pictures of the scene and get the contact information of any witnesses.
