Winter weather and premises liability

Winter weather and premises liability

On Behalf of | Nov 18, 2020 | Premises Liability

As New York residents usher in the holiday season, it may be wise to think ahead and use a little strategy to stay safe and organized. While certainly, people may be looking forward to special dinners, gathering with friends or family, or even watching a favorite movie, it is important to be aware of potential problems or dangers. During the winter months, there are often special circumstances, like bad weather, to plan for. If a person is injured, he or she may wonder if there is an appropriate cause to file a premises liability claim. 

One of the most common types of winter injury is the slip and fall. Darkness falls in the early evening, making it even more difficult to spot potential hazards. Slick surfaces may not be apparent, and when a victim loses his or her footing, a serious injury may occur. 

There are a few tips a person can use to try to avoid a fall. Taking small steps can help a person stay balanced. Experts recommend trying to keep hands free, so a person can break a fall if necessary. If the weather is bad, choice of footwear may be tricky. If shoes do not provide good traction, a fall may be more likely. 

In the event of a fall, it is common for a victim to feel as if the blame lies on one’s own shoulders. To the contrary, many of these injuries are the result of a property owner or proprietor not taking proper action to ensure safety. It may be a good idea for an injured victim to contact an attorney who has experience handling premises liability claims in New York. A successful claim can result in a verdict or settlement that provides financial relief for a victim, making coping with expenses related to an injury more manageable.