Winter Weather Brings Hidden Dangers
When winter hits the D.C. area, we brace ourselves for freezing mornings, icy sidewalks, and snow that sticks around longer than we’d like. What many people don’t realize is how fast a normal day can turn into a painful accident. A patch of ice or a puddle in a building lobby can send anyone falling, and those injuries can be serious.
At our firm, we often hear from people who thought their fall was just bad luck. But in many cases, it’s not. If a property owner failed to keep their space safe, you could have a valid claim under what’s called premises liability.
Common Winter Hazards to Watch For
Property owners must take reasonable steps to keep their spaces safe. When they don’t, here’s where problems usually begin:
-
Ice and Snow: Sidewalks, driveways, or stairs that aren’t cleared or treated soon enough.
-
Wet Indoor Floors: Melted snow tracked inside near entrances or lobbies.
-
Poor Lighting: Dim parking areas or stairwells hiding icy spots.
-
Damaged Surfaces: Cracked pavement or uneven stairs that become even riskier under ice or slush.
Even one small icy patch can cause major harm. Being alert to these risks can help prevent an accident, but if one happens, knowing your rights is just as important.
When Is a Property Owner Responsible?
In most slip and fall cases, the key question is: Did the property owner act with reasonable care?
To hold them responsible, you generally must show that:
-
A dangerous condition existed
-
The owner knew about it (or should have known)
-
They failed to fix it or warn others in time
Our firm looks closely at details like whether the owner had a snow removal plan, how long the hazard was there, and whether warning signs were placed. These small facts often make a big difference.
4 Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall
-
Get Medical Help: Don’t brush it off. See a doctor right away. Even small pain can signal a bigger injury.
-
Document The Scene: Take photos or videos before the hazard disappears.
-
Preserve Evidence: Keep the shoes and clothes you wore. They might help show what happened.
-
Report It: Let the property manager or owner know and ask for a copy of any report they create.
Don’t Wait, Time Limits Apply
In Washington, D.C., there are strict deadlines for filing a claim. Missing these can mean losing your right to compensation completely. The sooner you act, the better chance you have of protecting your rights.
Injured in a Fall? Let’s Talk
If you’ve been hurt in a slip, trip, or fall this winter, our firm is here to help. We’ll listen to your story and explain your options in plain language.
Contact Johnnie Bond Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation. You don’t have to face this alone. Let’s make sure your recovery starts on solid ground. Call us at (202) 683-6803 or click on the button below to schedule a confidential consultation.