As winter approaches, cities across the United States begin preparing for snowfall, icy sidewalks, and hazardous walking conditions. While snow can be beautiful, it can also create dangerous situations for pedestrians. Every year, thousands of people suffer injuries from slip-and-fall accidents caused by untreated ice or snow on sidewalks, parking lots, and building entrances. Understanding your rights is essential if you are injured, especially when the accident could have been prevented through proper maintenance.
At Urban Thier & Federer, P.A., we help victims navigate the complex legal issues that arise after a slip-and-fall injury. With offices serving clients in the United States and abroad, our team supports individuals who may not be familiar with local liability laws. As winter storms approach, here is what you need to know.
Property Owners Have a Duty to Keep Walkways Safe
In most states, property owners, businesses, and landlords have a legal responsibility to take reasonable steps to keep their premises safe. This includes removing snow and ice within a reasonable amount of time after a storm. Reasonable steps may include clearing sidewalks, salting or sanding icy patches, and placing warning signs in hazardous areas.
What is considered reasonable depends on how long the hazard existed, local ordinances, weather conditions, and the type of property involved. Commercial properties are often held to a higher maintenance standard than private residences.
When a property owner fails to take appropriate action and someone is injured, they may be held liable for the resulting damages.
Common Slip-and-Fall Injuries
Snow and ice-related falls can cause serious injuries. Some of the most common include:
- Broken bones
- Head injuries or concussions
- Back and spinal injuries
- Sprains and ligament tears
- Hip fractures
These injuries can lead to costly medical care, lost income, long-term complications, and reduced quality of life.
When a Property Owner May Be Liable
To recover compensation, an injured person must show that the property owner knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to correct it. Examples include:
- A business that does not shovel or deice its entrance hours after snowfall
- A landlord who ignores repeated complaints about icy stairways
- A store that mops melted snow and ice without placing caution signs
If these conditions cause a fall, the victim may have a viable personal injury claim.
Case Example: R. B. v. R. H. LLC, Minnesota, U.S.
We have successfully litigated a wide range of slip-and-fall cases involving hazardous winter conditions, including the following matter.
Urban Thier & Federer, P.A., represented a German client who suffered a serious injury while traveling for business in Minnesota. He was staying at a hotel when he slipped on untreated ice in the hotel parking lot while walking to his car. The fall caused a fractured wrist, resulting in significant pain and disruption to his work and travel.
Our firm worked closely with local counsel to initiate litigation in the Minnesota state court. After extensive discovery, depositions, and motion practice, the case reached a successful resolution. The matter settled for 220,000 dollars, providing our client with compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
We Are Here to Help
Urban Thier & Federer, P.A., assists clients from all around the world with slip-and-fall claims arising in the United States. If you or someone you know has been injured due to snow or ice, contact us today for a consultation.