Baltimore Slip And Fall Accidents: How Winter Weather Increases The Risks
As Baltimore heads into winter, temperatures plummet, and sidewalks, parking lots, and entryways become more hazardous. Unfortunately, the busy season means property owners and their employees may fail to address common hazards, such as ice, slush, and wet floors.
Whether you are shopping for the holidays, dining out with friends, visiting the doctor, or running other errands, slip and fall accidents in Baltimore can cause serious harm. Our experienced Maryland slip and fall accident lawyers explain the risks and how to hold negligent property owners accountable.
How Winter Weather Increases Baltimore Slip and Fall Accident Risks
The holidays are the highlight of the winter season and something Baltimore residents look forward to all year. However, in addition to twinkling lights, brightly wrapped gifts, and elaborate feasts, they also bring increased risk of freezing rain, snow, and other hazardous weather.
Whether you are out shopping, visiting friends and family, or attending doctor visits and other personal business, keep in mind that slip and fall accidents are common throughout Baltimore County at this time of year. Hazards that increase the risks include:
- Icy sidewalks and parking lots;
- Wet floors and entryways;
- Cluttered aisles and walkways;
- Inadequate lighting;
- Damaged tiles, carpeting, or other flooring material.
The Maryland Department of Health warns that older adults are particularly susceptible to slip and fall accidents, but they can also pose risks to children and adults, particularly during the winter months. Unfortunately, even a seemingly minor fall can leave you suffering injuries that not only ruin your holidays but could potentially impact your family in the year ahead.
The Role Property Owner Negligence Plays In Winter Slip and Fall Accidents in Baltimore
Decreased daylight, increased holiday crowds, and winter weather can all contribute to slip-and-fall accidents in Baltimore during the holidays. However, negligence on the part of property owners significantly increases the risk.
Under the legal theory of premises liability, Baltimore property owners must provide routine maintenance and warn visitors of potential hazards. This includes:
- Clearing snow and ice promptly from sidewalks, stairs, and parking areas.
- Using salt or sand to reduce slipping hazards.
- Using mats or warning signs when floors are wet.
- Repairing uneven or damaged floors.
- Providing adequate lighting in parking lots, stairwells, and entrances.
- Regularly inspecting the property, removing clutter, and addressing other obvious hazards.
When a property owner, manager, or employee is negligent in their duties and injuries occur, they can be held accountable either through the property insurer or by filing a premises liability lawsuit.
Contact Our Experienced Maryland Slip and Fall Accident Lawyers Today
The holidays are a hectic time of year, and winter weather increases the risk of slip and fall accidents in Baltimore. Injuries you or a loved one suffers as a result can impact you now and in the year ahead.
At Maryland Injury Lawyers, our legal team protects your rights and provides the trusted legal representation you need to get compensation. Contact our experienced Maryland slip and fall accident lawyers to schedule a consultation today.
Sources:
health.maryland.gov/phpa/OEHFP/Injury/pages/eip_falls.aspx
mdcourts.gov/circuit
