Slip and Fall Accidents in Winter Weather

Slip and Fall Accidents in Winter Weather

Wisconsin Slip and Fall AttorneyIf you slip and fall in front of or on someone’s property during winter because they allowed snow and ice to accumulate, you may not be able to sue for damages. According to the law, property owners are not liable for allowing snow to accumulate on their driveway.

So, it stands to reason, they are not liable for anyone who slips and falls on said ice and snow. This also includes melted snow, which turns into puddles. It is also considered to be a natural accumulation, which property owners are not responsible to clean up.

(This has nothing to do with Illinois’s Snow Removal Service Liability Limitation Act. The act is meant for ice and snow removal companies, not property owners).

Safety Tips

In other words, if you don’t want to pay for your injuries out of pocket, you should consider the following safety tips when you are out walking in the cold:

  • Take short steps when you are walking on a slippery sidewalk.
  • Wear proper footwear that can prevent slips and falls. This includes heavy boots or spiked footwear. Slippers will not work.
  • When you enter or exit your car, make sure you have at least three (3) points of contact with equipment to stabilize yourself.
  • Keep an eye on the path in front of you and keep a lookout for potential risks.
  • Slow down at exits and entrances to buildings. These areas are often the slipperiest.
  • Try not to carry heavy items or keep your hands in your pockets. You will need both hands free if you start to slip. You will prioritize fall prevention rather than your goods.

A slip and fall accident can lead to serious injuries which can be paralyzing or worse. This includes fractures, torn ligaments, head injuries, leg injuries, and spinal injuries.

If you have suffered from these injuries in a store because the owner did not clean up a puddle or spilled products, you deserve compensation. Just get in touch with us at the Law Offices of Robert T. Edens for an in-depth consultation for your case and we will assign an experienced attorney to you.

Whether you suffered from a spine injury that has left you paralyzed or a fracture, you deserve to be compensated for your pain and suffering. We will thoroughly analyze all of the facts we have at our disposal and are not afraid to get aggressive if need be. You can reach us at our offices in Libertyville, Waukegan, Woodstock, and Antioch, Illinois.

Call today for a free consultation

(847) 395-2200