Icy sidewalk accidents can be devastating. They can lead to severe injuries which inadvertently translate to significant losses in terms of lost wages and huge medical bills. As such, victims who sustain injuries due to icy sidewalk accidents may be entitled to compensation to recoup the losses.
However, determining whether someone is liable for your injuries can be somewhat tricky. This is because various factors come into play when determining liability in a personal injury claim. Legally speaking, you will need to figure out the person whose duty is to maintain the sidewalk you slipped on, and, at the same time, you’ll need to establish that the property owner’s actions constitute an act of “negligence”- leading to the injuries.
Having said that, it is imperative to have an attorney by your side. Essentially, an attorney helps you identify the options available and, at the same time, helps you make an informed decision.
Here is an elucidation of all you need to know about Icy sidewalk injuries in Minneapolis and how an attorney can help.
What Causes Icy Sidewalk Accidents in Minneapolis?
Icy sidewalk accidents in Minneapolis can be attributed to the negligence of the property owner. Although the ice is the primary contributor to the accident, the law places a duty on the property owner to maintain the common areas.
Put briefly, property owners are required to tend icy sidewalks as soon as snowy weather hits. This may be achieved by using a shovel to remove the ice or even de-icing products to clean the snow and ice.
Unfortunately, most property owners ignore this, thus resulting in a breach of their duty. As a consequence, icy sidewalk accidents occur-leading to severe injuries. Victims who sustain injuries due to such negligence may file a claim seeking compensation.
Common Types of Injuries Sustain In an Icy Sidewalk Accident in Minneapolis
Icy sidewalk accidents in Minneapolis can lead to severe injuries. Often times the victim sustains injuries, such as:
- Knee injuries
- Facial injuries
- Dental Injuries
- Wrist fractures
- Forearm fractures
- Sprains and Strains
That said, if you or your loved one sustains such injuries, it is imperative to seek medical attention right away. Legally speaking, your medical records may help you safeguard your rights and, at the same time, help you obtain the amount of compensation you deserve in your claim.
Who is Liable for an Icy Sidewalk Injury in Minneapolis?
Put simply, the property owner is liable for any injury that occurs within and without their premises. This means that a residential owner or a business owner who is negligent and fails to keep the sidewalks safe may be held liable for any injuries sustained.
How do you Establish Liability in a Premises Liability Claim in Minneapolis?
A premises liability claim typically involves establishing that the responsible party was negligent. In simple terms, all the elements of negligence have to be present in order to establish that the property owner is liable for the injuries.
To put this into perspective, you will need to prove:
- That the property owner owes you a duty of care. For a property owner to owe you a duty of care, you need to be lawfully present on their premises. In simpler terms, you need not be a trespasser.
- The property owner knew or ought to have known about the presence of the hazard(ice) on the sidewalk.
- The defendant failed to take measures to ensure the sidewalk is safe and free from any hazard. This denotes a breach of their duty.
- The property owner’s negligence is what contributed to the injuries. In other words, the defendant’s breach of their duty is directly connected to the injuries or harm suffered.
Establishing liability isn’t straightforward. You’ll need cogent evidence including photos or video evidence and even eye-witness reports. However, sometimes what seems like strong evidence to support your claim may be irrelevant in the eyes of the law. Therefore, it is always imperative to have an attorney by your side to help you establish liability and avoid other complexities.
Sustained an Icy Sidewalk Injury in Minneapolis? Contact an Attorney
If you or your loved one has sustained an injury due to an Icy sidewalk accident in Minneapolis, it is imperative to contact a personal injury attorney. In essence, an attorney can help safeguard your rights and, at the same time, ensure you obtain the compensation you deserve.
Contact the Attorneys at Swor & Gatto today for a free case evaluation. We will gladly help.