Have you sustained a wintertime injuries? Winter weather brings snow, ice, and freezing temperatures that create hazardous conditions on both public and private property. While winter can be a beautiful season, it is also a time when personal injuries related to premises liability increase significantly. Property owners, businesses, and landlords have a responsibility to maintain reasonably safe conditions, and when they fail to do so, serious injuries can occur.
Premises liability refers to the legal responsibility property owners have to keep their premises safe for visitors. During the winter, this duty often includes clearing snow and ice from walkways, parking lots, stairs, and entrances within a reasonable amount of time. When these areas are neglected, the risk of accidents rises sharply, particularly slip-and-fall incidents.
Slip-and-fall accidents are the most common wintertime injuries linked to premises liability. Ice-covered sidewalks, untreated parking lots, and snow-packed entryways can easily cause someone to lose their footing. These falls may result in injuries such as sprains, broken bones, back injuries, or head trauma. Even a seemingly minor fall can lead to long-term pain, limited mobility, or the need for ongoing medical treatment, especially for older adults.
Another frequent winter hazard involves stairs and ramps. Ice accumulation on steps or the absence of handrails can make these areas especially dangerous and prone to wintertime injuries. Poor lighting during shorter winter days can further reduce visibility, making it harder for visitors to notice icy patches or uneven surfaces. When property owners fail to address these risks, they increase the likelihood of serious accidents.
Snow removal practices themselves can also create dangers if handled improperly. Piling snow in areas where it later melts and refreezes can lead to large patches of ice. Blocked drainage systems may cause water to pool and freeze overnight. These conditions are often foreseeable and preventable, which is why they are commonly associated with premises liability claims.
Indoor hazards can also contribute to wintertime injuries. Wet floors caused by tracked-in snow and slush are a common problem in stores, offices, and apartment buildings. Without proper mats, warning signs, or timely cleaning, these slick surfaces can cause visitors to slip and fall. While the danger may seem temporary, the injuries that result can have lasting consequences.
The impact of winter-related premises injuries goes beyond physical harm. Victims often experience pain and suffering that affects their daily lives with wintertime injuries. Medical appointments, physical therapy, and recovery time can disrupt work, school, and family responsibilities. In some cases, individuals may be unable to work for weeks or months, leading to financial strain and added stress during an already challenging season.
Property owners can reduce the risk of wintertime injuries by taking proactive safety measures. Regular snow and ice removal, applying salt or sand, maintaining proper lighting, and inspecting walkways frequently are essential steps. Posting warning signs and promptly addressing known hazards can also help protect visitors and reduce liability.
THERE ARE A COUPLE TYPES OF VISITORS IN REGARDS TO PREMISES LIABILITY CLAIMS
- Invitees – who are welcomed visitors to a commercial property for the property owner’s benefit
- Licensees – who are welcomed visitors to a non-commercial property for the property owner’s benefit
- Trespassers – who are unauthorized visitors and are those who illegally enter a property
SAFETY OBLIGATIONS FOR PROPERTY OWNERS TO AVOID WINTERTIME INJURIES
- To seek out and to warn visitors of potentially dangerous hazards on their property
- To warn visitors of any pre-existing safety hazards on the property of which the property owner is aware
However, property owners do not have to follow all of these safety obligations for all three types of visitors. Invitees are the only type of visitor that must be afforded to all three types of visitors.
Wintertime premises liability injuries are a serious and often preventable problem. Snow, ice, and cold weather create conditions that demand extra care from property owners. When that responsibility is ignored, innocent visitors can suffer painful injuries with long-term effects. Understanding these risks highlights the importance of proper winter maintenance and accountability, helping to ensure safer environments for everyone during the colder months. For more wintertime safety tips, please click here.
If you sustained a personal injury due to premises liability, contact our team so we can help.
Recent Comments