What happens when gutters start leaking onto sidewalks, and snow gets piled across walkways? Answer: Somebody is going to slip and fall.
Property owners have a duty to clear snow when it falls and keep their property reasonably for the public or for renters. The question of what is reasonably safe is a question that will ultimately be decided by a jury if someone is injured. If you are a landowner, you should exercise reasonable care in the removal of snow and ice as it falls and clear it after it falls. Property owners should regularly check to be sure ice is not accumulating as a result of thawing and freezing. Most communities require snow be removed from sidewalks after every snowstorm.
The property owner rather it by a homeowner with a sidewalk out front or a municipality is responsible for maintaining the property and may be liable. The snow removal company or the company providing ice treatment may also be liable if their work is done improperly or poorly.
First of all you should seek medical attention or the appropriate treatment right away. Sometimes injuries are not always apparent. Falls can be severe causing fractures and even traumatic brain injuries. Getting to an emergency room to get checked out as soon as possible is always important.
Next, you should contact a personal injury lawyer with experience in slip and fall cases. The property owner should be notified by your lawyer in a timely fashion in order for a claim to be made.
Your legal rights need to be protected. You should hire an experienced premises liability lawyer after a fall on the snow and ice to maintain your right to payment of all medical bills and any pain and suffering that may have occurred.
Contact our office now for a free consultation if you have been injured in a slip and fall accident.
To arrange a free consultation about your case, please contact The Horwitz Law Group by e-mail or call 312-641-9200.
To arrange a free initial consultation with an experienced Illinois injury lawyer complete the e-mail form below.