Are Businesses Responsible for Injuries Caused by Snow or Ice?

Are businesses responsible for injuries caused by Missouri’s winter weather? This is a question that many business owners and property managers find themselves asking when the temperatures start dropping in St. Louis. Slip and fall accidents on snow or ice can result in painful injuries and significant medical expenses. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a slip and fall on snow or ice, please know that businesses and property owners can indeed be liable for your injuries. 

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask an experienced St. Louis slip and fall attorney who can help determine whether you have a valid claim for compensation. At Bruntrager & Billings, we understand these matters of who is at fault aren’t always straight-forward. You need a tried-and-true professional to go through the details with you—we can help.

Establishing Liability for Slip and Fall Accidents on Snow or Ice

When it comes to slip and fall accidents on dangerous surfaces like snow or ice, the question of liability is sometimes complex. In general, business owners have a duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition for customers and visitors. This includes ensuring that walkways and parking lots are properly cleared of snow and ice to prevent accidents.

However, determining liability in these cases requires a careful examination of the specific circumstances surrounding the incident. Factors that may be considered include:

• Notice of dangerous conditions: Did the business owner have prior knowledge of the slippery conditions and fail to take appropriate action?
• Reasonable care: Did the business owner take reasonable steps to prevent slip and fall accidents, such as timely clearing of snow and ice, using salt or other de-icing materials?
• Contributory negligence: Did the injured party contribute to their own accident by engaging in careless behavior, such as running, wearing poor-fitting footwear, or being intoxicated?
• Local ordinances: Are there any local regulations or ordinances in place that require business owners to clear snow and ice from their premises within a certain timeframe?

It is important to note that each slip and fall case is unique, and liability will depend on the specific facts and circumstances involved. Again, you have nothing to lose by reaching out to a reliable, steadfast St. Louis slip and fall lawyer. Know your rights! You may be surprised what you are entitled to under the law.

We Are Your Trusted St. Louis Slip and Fall Attorneys

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a slip and fall accident due to snow or ice that should have been cleared or treated by a shop owner, don’t hesitate to reach out to the steadfast professionals at Bruntrager & Billings. With years of experience representing clients in slip and fall cases, we have a thorough understanding of the legal nuances and applicable Missouri laws. To set up a free consultation with a St. Louis slip and fall lawyer now, please contact our office now.