The Law Offices of Bailey & Burke

A Proven Full Service Law Firm Since 1971
888-870-0925

The Law Offices of Bailey & Burke

A Proven Full Service Law Firm Since 1971
888-870-0925

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What really causes winter slip and fall accidents?

On Behalf of | Nov 4, 2019 | Slip-And-Fall Accidents

With winter just around the corner, so loom slip and fall accidents. Whether you’re a property owner, resident or a customer, there are steps you can take to help prevent these injuries.

What contributes to accidents?

When people fall, especially outdoors, it can have unexpectedly severe consequences. Even minor fractures can cause a domino effect, with one injury revealing another and another.

If you have joint pain, tremors, dizziness, or other conditions that affect stability, you may be at an increased risk for falls in places where owners don’t take precautions to protect their customers.

Winter weather presents unique challenges to these individuals, but also to everyone else. In truly dangerous situations, people without those conditions are also at risk.

What dangers might a property owner overlook?

As winter rolls in, property owners have a responsibility to take extra precautions to keep their customers and residents safe.

  • Ice: Melting and re-freezing ice patches can accumulate on roofs, in parking lots, near drainage pipes or manhole covers, on steps, and in doorways.
  • Lighting: As days get shorter, sufficient outdoor lighting is essential to safety. In the late days of fall or early spring, timed lights or light-sensing devices can be incorrect for actual visibility needs for residents and customers.
  • Asphalt and Cement/Concrete: Whenever there are severe cracks, curbs or sudden changes in the steepness of a path, there is a serious risk for people to trip. Managers and owners should regularly inspect sidewalks and parking lots for tripping hazards. These include private and public walkways.

Certain areas have a combination of public and private property. For instance, the trees or sidewalk a certain distance away from the front door may be the property or responsibility of the city, but the parking lot might be private.

If you are injured on someone else’s property, to help you receive compensation for medical bills, lost work, and other expenses, you may need the help of a legal expert. They could help you identify the responsible party.

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