Winter in Connecticut can be picturesque, with snow-covered landscapes and frosty mornings. However, the beauty of winter also brings hazards, particularly the risk of serious slip-and-fall injuries. These accidents can happen anywhere—on sidewalks, in parking lots, at the entrance of buildings or even inside homes. While many injuries involve minor bruises, other severe injuries can lead to long-term disabilities or worse.
Common causes of winter slip and fall Injuries
Our climate can go from snow to rain and back to snow. There is thawing and freezing that can be particularly treacherous. One of the primary causes of slip and fall injuries during winter is ice. Sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots can become treacherous when covered with ice, which may be invisible to the naked eye. Snow can conceal uneven surfaces, holes, and other hazards that increase the risk of falling. Snow and ice tracked indoors melt, creating slippery floors in businesses, public buildings and even homes.
Common Injuries from winter falls
Slip and fall incidents can result in a range of injuries:
- Broken bones, particularly in the wrists, arms, and hips, due to the impact of falls
- Concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries
- Ligament and muscle injuries from trying to catch oneself during a fall
- Herniated discs or other spinal injuries
Legal rights and responsibilities
Understanding your legal rights is crucial if you suffer a slip and fall injury. Property owners have a duty to maintain reasonably safe conditions. They can be held liable if they fail to do so and their negligence results in an injury. Here are some key points to consider:
- Duty of care: Property owners must take reasonable steps to prevent hazardous conditions. This includes regular maintenance and timely removal of snow and ice.
- Proof of negligence: To have a successful claim, you must prove that the property owner was negligent. This means showing that they knew or should have known about the dangerous condition and failed to address it.
- Documentation: Gather evidence immediately after the accident. Take photographs of the scene, note the conditions, and get contact information from any witnesses. Seek medical attention right away and keep records of all treatments.
Also consult with an attorney
The above steps are crucial. Nonetheless, a personal injury attorney experienced in serious slip and fall injuries can help navigate the complexities of these cases. Lawyers assist victims by gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies and representing the client’s interests in court if necessary. It’s also worth noting that they work on contingency and charge no legal fees unless they win the case.