Rain, snow, and ice create hazardous conditions. Property owners must take reasonable steps to prevent accidents.
- Ice and Snow: Slippery sidewalks and parking lots increase fall risks. - Wet Surfaces: Rain and melting snow create slick entryways and floors. - Fallen Leaves: Piled-up leaves hide hazards and make walkways slippery.
- Duty of Care: Owners must maintain safe walkways. - Reasonable Measures: Prompt snow removal, salting, and hazard warnings are expected. - Challenges in Proving Negligence: Courts consider if the owner had enough time to act.
- Photographs and Videos: Capture the hazard before it’s cleaned up. - Witness Statements: Testimonies support your claim. - Maintenance Logs and Records: Show if proper steps were taken. - Medical Records: Link injuries directly to the fall.
- Natural Accumulation Rule: Owners may not be liable for naturally occurring snow/ice. - Timing of Maintenance: Liability depends on how long the hazard existed. - Comparative Negligence: Your own actions may affect your claim.
- Proving Negligence: Lawyers gather evidence to build a strong case. - Handling Defenses: Legal experts counter owner claims of reasonable care.
Report the incident, gather evidence, and consult an attorney as soon as possible.
Need legal support? Contact Midwest Injury Lawyers for a free consultation today.