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It is officially winter in the Midwest! Snow is falling steadily, ice is forming, and the sidewalks, roads, and houses are all wrapped in a frigid blanket of white. Many Chicagoans and businesses take preventative measures to combat the icy freezing weather like purchasing road salt or sand, retrieving shovels from storage, and tuning up their cars to prepare for harsh conditions.
In a populous city like Chicago with multiple high-rise buildings, individuals are at an increased risk of being struck by icicles, an accumulation of snowpack, and other falling ice. These accident reports across Chicago are uncommon, but it is still important to know the risks.
Pedestrian accidents involving snow and ice typically fall under the broader category of premises liability and can include the following sub-practice areas:
Slip and Fall Accidents
- Happen when pedestrians slip on icy or snow-covered sidewalks, parking lots, or stairways.
- Involve a failure by property owners to clear snow and ice or apply salt or sand in a timely manner.
Improper Snow Removal
- Instances where snow is improperly shoveled or plowed, creating hazardous conditions such as patches of ice or piles of snow that can obstruct visibility or pathways.
Failure to Maintain Walkways
- Uneven sidewalks or broken stairs that become more dangerous when covered in snow or ice.
- Property owners or managers may be liable for ignoring these conditions before winter weather increases risks.
Inadequate Lighting
- Poorly lit areas can make snow or icy patches harder to see, increasing the risk of falls.
Negligence in Providing Warnings
- Failure to place warning signs about slippery conditions or block off hazardous areas.
Structural Snow and Ice Hazards
- Ice falling from rooftops, awnings, or overhangs onto pedestrians.
- Snow accumulation on roofs leading to collapses that harm individuals nearby.
Business-Related Incidents
- Injuries sustained on commercial properties, such as retail stores, malls, or office buildings, where property managers are responsible for maintaining safe conditions.
According to a study published in the Journal of Safety Research, 97% of all weather-related injuries are slips or trips on ice and snow. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about 1 million U.S. adults are injured due to slips and falls every year, with the injury rate increasing significantly as temperatures decline.
- One out of every five falls result in a serious injury such as broken bones.
- At least 300,000 older people require hospital treatment for hip fractures annually.
- More than 95% of hip fractures are the result of falling—usually sideways.
- Three million older people receive treatment in emergency departments for fall-related injuries each year.
These cases often hinge on proving negligence, such as a property owner’s failure to take reasonable steps to address the snow or ice hazard in a timely manner. If you have been injured in an accident due to falling snow and ice, it is essential to consult with an experienced attorney who can assess your claim and guide you through the legal process.
Your lawyer will handle the next steps, which typically involve the following:
Investigating and gathering evidence – Your attorney will determine the cause of your accident, identify the liable parties, and gather evidence such as medical bills, photos and videos, witness statements, and other documentation to support your case.
Filing your claim – Your attorney will prepare and file all the necessary paperwork.
Negotiating with the liable party and their insurer – Your lawyer will aim to reach a settlement that fairly compensates you for your injuries.
Litigating the case – If the opposition fails to offer a settlement that fully compensates you for all your losses, your attorney will file a lawsuit and take the case to trial if necessary. However, they will continue negotiating for a settlement until the jury returns a verdict.
If your lawyer can secure a settlement or win a verdict in your favor, you can then collect compensation for your injuries.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to falling snow or ice, it is important to act quickly. Consulting an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights, build a compelling case, and secure the compensation you deserve. Do not let the winter hazards go unchecked—know your options and protect yourself this season. Stay safe and remember that accountability matters in ensuring everyone’s safety during the harsh winter months.
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