There are so many circumstances where our personal injury law firm receives calls from clients who have been hurt on someone’s property because of icy or snowy conditions. In these types of slip-and-fall incidents, the attorney will want to know when the storm occurred and whether or not it was still snowing, sleeting, or freezing rain when the person fell.

Why is it important to know when the storm ended or what the condition was when the person slipped? It’s very important to know because, under Virginia law, although businesses have an obligation to clear the snow and ice, they are given a reasonable amount of time to clean their properties. Unfortunately, the law doesn’t exactly define that timeframe. It depends on the circumstances.

At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, we have been fighting for injured clients for over three decades and are committed to guiding you through this process and protecting your right to compensation. If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, call 833-997-1774 for a free consultation.

What Are the Common Causes of Slip-and-Fall Injuries in Snowy and Icy Conditions?

Slip and fall accidents during snowy and icy weather often occur due to hazardous conditions created by winter weather. Common causes include:

  • Untreated walkways and sidewalks: Property owners failing to clear snow or apply salt or sand to reduce ice can create dangerous conditions.
  • Black ice: Invisible patches of ice on driveways, parking lots, or steps are particularly treacherous.
  • Improper drainage: Poorly designed drainage systems can lead to puddles that freeze and create slippery surfaces.
  • Neglected maintenance: Broken stairs, uneven sidewalks, or poorly lit areas compounded by ice or snow can result in accidents.
  • Lack of warning signs: Failure to provide adequate warnings about slippery conditions can also lead to injuries.

Virginia property owners, whether residential, commercial, or governmental, are often responsible for maintaining safe conditions. When they fail to address hazards, they may be held liable for accidents.

Who Is Responsible for Snowy and Icy Slip-and-Fall Accidents?

Liability for slip-and-fall accidents in snowy or icy conditions depends on the circumstances and the parties involved. In Virginia, property owners and occupiers generally have a legal duty to maintain safe premises. Potential at-fault parties include:

  • Homeowners: Private property owners are typically responsible for clearing snow and ice from their driveways, sidewalks, or entryways.
  • Commercial Property Owners: Businesses must ensure that walkways, parking lots, and entrances are safe for customers, employees, and visitors. They may need to hire snow removal services or apply treatments like salt.
  • Landlords: Landlords are often responsible for maintaining common areas such as stairs, hallways, and parking lots in apartment complexes.
  • Municipalities: Local governments are responsible for maintaining public sidewalks and roadways, although some cities delegate sidewalk maintenance to adjacent property owners.

In Virginia, determining liability can be complex due to the state’s contributory negligence rule, which bars recovery if the injured party is found even partially at fault. Consulting a premises liability attorney experienced in slip and fall cases can help clarify liability.

How Can Victims Pursue Legal Action After a Slip-and-Fall Accident?

If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit to seek compensation. You will want to:

  • Seek medical attention: Prioritize your health by seeking immediate medical care for injuries sustained.
  • Document the accident: Take photos of the icy or snowy conditions and note the location, time, and circumstances of the fall. Collect witness contact information if available.
  • Report the incident: Notify the property owner or manager of the accident in writing.
  • Consult an attorney: A personal injury lawyer can evaluate your case, help you establish negligence, and determine the extent of your damages.

For a successful outcome for your case, your lawyer must demonstrate that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazard and failed to take reasonable steps to address it. Acting promptly and preserving evidence is essential to building a strong case.

What Should I Do If I’ve Been Injured in a Slip and Fall Accident?

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, it’s important to explore all your options for seeking damages. At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, we are committed to getting you the compensation you deserve.

We offer free, confidential consultations and represent clients on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay any legal fees unless we recover compensation for you.

Contact our office today at 833-997-1774 to schedule your free case evaluation with one of our skilled personal injury lawyers and find out what legal recourse you may have.