Slip and fall accidents can occur at anytime and anywhere, but wintery weather increases their likelihood. Ice and snow are two of the biggest winter hazards and cause serious injuries every year to residents in Seattle and throughout the State of Washington. Unfortunately, businesses and store owners do not always keep their walkways and parking lots clear of dangerous snow and ice and that can lead to serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries.
In general, store owners and businesses have a different level of responsibility than homeowners when it comes to keeping their premises safe for their customers. They have a higher level of obligation to maintain their premises in a manner that minimizes the risk of injury to their customers. When it comes to snow and ice, they are required to use a reasonable level of care when clearing ice and snow from their property. This may include salting the parking lots, clearing snow from the front doors, putting safety mats inside the building for people to wipe their feet on, and more.
Injuries that Result from Slip and Fall Accidents
Unfortunately, a negligent or irresponsible property owner can create a dangerous situation for customers—especially the elderly and small children who are more vulnerable to sustaining serious injury. Moderate injuries often include bumps, bruises, and sprains, and more serious injuries include hip fractures, ACL/MCL tears, back injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. These injuries often require multiple surgeries, hospitalizations, and lengthy rehabilitation in order to fully heal which can increase your family’s financial burden.
If you are injured on a commercial property or residential property due to the negligence of the property owner, then you may be able to file a premises liability claim to recover money for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. There are numerous ways a negligent property owner could be responsible for your slip and fall accident, including:
- Improperly salted parking lots and doorway entrances
- Parking blocks that are not properly marked
- Improper snow removal
- Ice and snow in front of a store building
- Broken railings or guardrails
- Falling or loose debris at construction site
- Falling merchandise in store
- Inadequate lighting or security leading to crimes
- Cracked sidewalks or parking lots
- Dangerous potholes or unmarked parking lot hole
- Improperly marked wet flooring
- And more
Washington Personal Injury Lawyers You Can Rely On
In winter weather, slip and fall accidents are unfortunately common. If you are injured slipping on snow or ice on a commercial property, it is important to realize that you do have legal options.
At Phillips Law Firm, we have successfully represented slip and fall accident victims in Seattle, Bellevue, Everett, Tacoma, and throughout the State of Washington. Call us today for a free case evaluation at 1-800-708-6000.