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Winters in Connecticut bring icy sidewalks, snowy parking lots, and slippery driveways. While these conditions are a part of the season, they can also lead to serious injuries from slip and fall accidents. A single misstep on untreated ice or snow can leave you with pain, medical bills, and time away from work. If this has happened to you, it’s important to know you have options. Property owners have responsibilities, and when they fail to meet them, you shouldn’t have to bear the consequences alone. At Stanfield Bechtel Law, we can help.
How Property Owners Are Responsible for Ice and Snow Removal
Property owners in Connecticut have a duty to keep their properties safe, especially during winter. This includes removing ice and snow within a reasonable time to prevent dangerous conditions. Whether the property is residential, commercial, or municipal, owners are expected to take steps to protect those who visit or pass through.
For residential property owners, this might mean shoveling driveways and sidewalks promptly after a snowfall. Commercial property owners, such as store or business managers, often have a greater responsibility to ensure parking lots, walkways, and entryways are safe for customers and employees. Municipalities are tasked with maintaining public areas like sidewalks and streets, though the rules may vary depending on local ordinances.
If a property owner delays or neglects snow and ice removal, they could be held liable for accidents that occur. For example, if a store owner fails to clear a sheet of ice from their entryway and someone slips, the injured party may have grounds for a claim.
Proving Negligence in a Slip and Fall Accident
To hold a property owner responsible for a slip and fall on ice or snow, you’ll need to prove they were negligent. Negligence means the property owner failed to act in a way that a reasonable person would under the same circumstances. Here’s what you need to establish:
- Duty of care: The property owner had a legal obligation to maintain safe conditions on their property.
- Breach of duty: They failed to fulfill that obligation by not removing or addressing the hazardous condition in a timely manner.
- Causation: Their failure directly caused your slip and fall accident.
- Damages: You suffered actual harm, such as medical bills, lost wages, or physical pain, as a result of the fall.
Each of these elements builds a stronger foundation for your claim.
Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident on Ice or Snow
If you slip and fall on ice or snow, the actions you take immediately after the accident can impact your ability to seek compensation. Follow these steps to protect your health and your legal rights:
- Seek medical attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor. Some injuries, like concussions or fractures, may not be immediately obvious.
- Document the scene: Take clear photos of the icy or snowy area where you fell, including any hazards, such as untreated walkways or uneven surfaces.
- Report the accident: If possible, notify the property owner, landlord, or business manager about the incident and document the report in writing.
- Gather witness information: If anyone saw the fall, collect their names and contact details. Witness statements can support your claim.
- Keep records: Save all medical bills, treatment notes, and receipts. These documents demonstrate the extent of your injuries and expenses.
Taking these steps can help preserve valuable evidence and give you a strong starting point for pursuing a claim against the property owner.
How We Can Help You With Your Slip and Fall Case
At Stanfield Bechtel Law, we understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with the aftermath of a slip and fall accident. From investigating the incident to gathering evidence, we handle the details so you can focus on your recovery. Our team works to determine whether the property owner failed to meet their obligations, building a case that supports your claim. We also work to calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost income, and the impact on your daily life. With our knowledge of Connecticut’s laws and commitment to protecting your rights, Stanfield Bechtel Law is here to support you.
Contact Our Experienced Middletown, CT Slip and Fall Attorneys
Slip and fall accidents on ice or snow can leave you with serious challenges, but you don’t have to face them alone. Contact Stanfield Bechtel Law today to discuss your case and explore how we can help you recover.