Winter will be here soon, and while this area experiences less snowfall than the national average, it’s not unusual for temperatures to fall below freezing. This can lead to icy parking lots and an increased likelihood of slipping and falling.
Over one million people are injured yearly due to slips, trips and falls. Approximately 17,000 of these accidents are fatal. Furthermore, 80% of falls happen in parking lots and on sidewalks.
Common injuries and why they’re most likely to occur
Some falls may leave a person with nothing more than a few bruises. Others can result in severe injuries, such as:
- Fractures and broken bones, usually in the wrists, arms and hips
- Sprains and strains from sudden twists or trying to break the fall
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries from the head hitting a hard surface
- Hematomas, cuts and muscle tears
- Spinal injuries that come from jarring the spine
In addition to slippery surfaces caused by rain, ice and snow, there are other factors that increase the risk of falling in parking lots, including cracks, potholes and uneven pavement, poor lighting and obstructions like shopping carts and debris
When can a property owner have liability?
Property owners have a legal duty of care to their visitors to take all reasonable steps to ensure that their parking lots are safe. Therefore, if you slip and fall in a parking lot, in addition to the duty of care, the following elements would need proven to establish liability:
- The business owner knew of the hazardous condition and didn’t take the steps to address it.
- Your fall was a direct result of the hazardous condition.
- You were injured in your fall. Thus, the business is responsible for the damages.
If you are injured in a parking lot, it’s crucial to take photos of where your accident occurred, taking special care to note the hazards that were the direct cause of your fall. You will also want to notify the property owner so an official report is on file. Don’t sign any kind of liability waiver or settlement agreement, however. It’s wise to seek legal guidance to determine your best options for getting the compensation you need and deserve.