Injured in a Slip-and-Fall Accident in Boulder, Colorado?
Slip-and-fall accidents occur more often during the colder winter months. When snow and ice are present on walkways and stairs, they greatly increase the risk of a dangerous fall. Winter slip-and-falls can cause serious, catastrophic, or even fatal injuries.
Where Are Icy Slip-and-Falls Likely to Occur?
Winter slip-and-fall accidents can occur on private or public property. Icy sidewalks are a common location. People may slip and fall on snow-packed or icy stairways, in driveways, in parking lots, or on indoor surfaces wet from melted, tracked-in rain and snow.
What Is the Risk of Injury in a Winter Slip-and-Fall?
The risk and severity of injury in a slip-and-fall accident can vary, depending on the age and health of the victim. Falling on snow and ice can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes and bruises to serious head trauma or loss of life. Common injuries in winter slip-and-falls include:
- Fractured bones (including wrists, hips, knees, and shins)
- Traumatic brain injury
- Spinal injuries (herniated discs and compression fractures)
- Sprained muscles
- Strained ligaments
What Can You Do to Reduce the Risk of a Winter Slip-and-Fall?
When snow and ice are present, a slip-and-fall accident is more likely to happen. You can reduce your risk by taking extra precautions during the winter months:
- Wear proper footwear with sturdy, textured soles to provide better traction on slippery surfaces.
- Keep your hands and arms free while you walk for better balance.
- Watch where you are going and avoid icy patches.
- Allow plenty of time to get to your destination so you will not need to rush.
- Wear appropriate eyewear to correct or protect your vision so you can see slipping or tripping hazards in your path.
- Use supporting objects, such as handrails, when available.
Who Is Liable for Winter Slip-and-Fall Accidents?
Property owners in Colorado have a duty to maintain their property in a reasonably safe condition. Cities have varying rules regarding snow and ice removal. In Boulder, property owners or occupants are responsible for their own snow removal and may be subject to a fine if they fail to do it within 24 hours of a snowfall. If a city snowplow pushes snow back onto the sidewalk, property owners have a responsibility to remove it. A property owner who knows that snow and ice are present on the property and fails to remove the hazard within a reasonable length of time may be held liable for resulting accidents and injuries.
Do You Need a Lawyer After a Winter Slip-and-Fall?
Slipping on snow and ice can cause serious injuries, requiring extensive medical treatment and time away from work. Business and private property owners have a duty to maintain their premises in a safe condition, which includes clearing away snow and ice in the winter months. If you were injured in a fall on someone else’s property, your best chance of recovering full compensation is to have an experienced Boulder slip-and-fall lawyer by your side.
Our Boulder personal injury lawyers at the Tenge Law Firm, LLC, have recovered tens of millions in settlements, verdicts, and arbitration awards for our clients. We are a boutique, full-service firm that will help you with everything involved in your case. If you have been injured in a winter slip-and-fall on someone else’s property, call us at (303) 665-2929 to schedule a free initial consultation.