Chicago’s winter charm can be picturesque, but it also inspires challenges, especially regarding safety. This is particularly true now that the city has recently experienced major snowfall and extreme winds from a recent winter storm.
As a resident, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the process of pursuing a lawsuit if you get injured in a slip-and-fall accident due to frozen downspout drainage over a sidewalk or frozen runoff from snow piles in parking lots.
Frozen hazards in strip malls
Frozen downspout drainages are a common issue during severe winter weather. When downspouts are clogged with ice, melting snow from roofs cannot properly drain. This can lead to dangerous icy patches on sidewalks.
Suppose you get involved in a slip-and-fall accident because a property owner didn’t take proactive measures to help ensure proper drainage and prevent accidents. In that case, you can pursue a personal injury lawsuit by demonstrating that the property owner failed to fulfil their duty of care. You can increase your odds of winning a slip-and-fall lawsuit when if you can prove that the property owner’s neglect created conditions that directly led to your fall and resulting injuries.
Snow piles in parking lots, if not managed effectively, can also become a hazard. As snow accumulates, it can freeze, creating slippery surfaces. Likewise, you can pursue compensation for your injuries by demonstrating that the property owner or contractors hired to clear the snow piles failed to clear the fluff promptly to prevent injuries.
Who is liable?
Property owners have a duty to maintain safe premises. Negligence in addressing frozen downspout drainage or failing to clear snow piles can make them liable for injuries sustained on their property. To establish liability, the injured party must demonstrate that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous conditions. Additionally, contractors hired for snow and ice removal share the responsibility for ensuring safe premises. They can be held liable if a slip-and-fall occurs due to their negligence.
Pursuing a lawsuit
To build a strong case, victims of slip-and-fall accidents should have thorough documentation of the incident that caused their harm. This can include photographic evidence of icy conditions, pertinent witness statements and any warning signs or lack thereof. These details can strengthen a personal injury claim and establish liability.
Prompt medical attention is also crucial for both a victim’s well-being and their legal case. Medical records serve as vital evidence in connecting injuries to a slip-and-fall incident, potentially reinforcing the validity of the personal injury claim.
Pursuing justice after a slip-and-fall in winter conditions involves understanding the nuances of liability for both property owners and contractors. Consider consulting an experienced legal team who can assess the specifics of your case, guide you through the legal process and advocate for your rights.
