As Jack Frost blows into town, the prevalence of slips and falls rises. With icy sidewalks and staircases, the earlier twilight hours happening still within the workday, and wind drifts of snow, hazardous conditions abound. As a pedestrian, you can help prevent yourself from dangerous falls by ensuring you have proper rubber-soled footwear and are aware of your surroundings. However, it is also the responsibility of property owners to maintain their premises.
Slips and falls can often be prevented by regular and proper maintenance by property owners such as:
· Safely removing snow and ice (Check here for some tips on safely shoveling from the National Safety Council: https://www.nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/news-and-resources-snow-shoveling.aspx)
· Adding handrails to outdoor and indoor staircases
· Cleaning up liquids, such as melted snow (inside and out)
· Using de-icing materials on walkways
· Removing obstacles from pathways, especially when it is dark out
· Cutting back shrubbery that overhangs walkways
· Wearing rubber-soled shoes and boots to help with traction
· Taking shorter strides
In the event of slip or fall, it is good to know that you have rights because property owners have a legal duty to maintain their premises, and also, to correct any problems such as the ones listed above, which may arise. If you slipped or tripped on someone else’s property in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, you may be entitled to compensation, which can cover the cost of your injuries.
For more information, contact our Delaware County slip and fall attorneys and schedule a free consultation.
