California has seen its share of rain and Snow this season, making moving about outdoors a bit slick at times — and downright treacherous at others. Unfortunately for property owners, one of the most common types of personal injury lawsuits is the slip and Fall suit. Wet weather conditions, along with snow and ice, can make slipping on a snowy sidewalk or falling on a wet surface a very real possibility. Here is how people can help to prevent slip and fall accidents on their property during the winter.

1. Ice and Snow

Whether or not you are legally bound to clear ice and snow from your property depends on the jurisdiction you live in. Typically, you are not required to do so immediately, but you may be required to do so when the accumulation of snow and ice poses a reasonable perception of threat. That is, if you look outside of your window and can make an assumption that the slick sidewalk in front of your house is hazardous, you should make an attempt to clear it.

2. Lighting

Inadequate lighting can lead to slip and falls on walkways, driveways and parking lots. This is especially true during inclement weather. If you have been meaning to add more lighting or change burned out bulbs, get to it. If you are aware of poor lighting conditions on your property and fail to make improvements, you could be held liable if someone slips and falls.

3. Parking Lots

If you have a parking lot on your property, you are responsible for maintaining it in a safe manner. If there are cracks or holes, fill them in. If surfaces are uneven, repair them. If there is snow and ice piling up, make sure to clear it or hire someone to do it for you. If someone falls in your parking lot because you failed to do these things, you may find yourself in court and being forced to compensate the victim.

4. Sidewalks

People are generally not liable for slips and falls on publicly maintained sidewalks, but are responsible for those that occur on privately owned walkways. For example, the city may maintain the walk in front of your business, but the walkway leading to your door could be your responsibility. If dangerous conditions exist on your walkway and a person falls, you could be sued.

If a person slips and falls on your property because you were negligent in its maintenance, you can find yourself in court. A person could sue you for compensation for medical bills, lost wages and more. Do yourself a favor: If the snow and ice accumulate on your property, take the necessary steps to clear it.

If you are injured in a slip and fall accident, you may have the legal right to compensation. Reach out to the Ernst Law Group for assistance. We will review the details of your accident and advise you of your options.

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