Minnesota Slip and Fall Law Firm
The legal team at our Minnesota slip and fall law firm Johnston Martineau, PLLP know that Minnesota winters can bring a mix of temperatures and weather conditions. Rainy days and chilling colder evening temperatures mean there is a chance ice can form overnight and create slushy, slippery conditions for sidewalks, walkways, and parking lots. Any type of moisture accumulation increases your risks for slip and fall accidents, which can leave you suffering serious and potentially ongoing injuries. The lawyers at our law firm for Minnesota slip and fall accidents suggest taking steps now to protect yourself for the coming winter months ahead.
Winter Slips and Falls Injuries
We have all been there. You may be walking to work or out running errands over the cold weather season and you suddenly slip on a wet, slick patch. These occur both indoors and out, on neighborhood sidewalks as well as in stores and office buildings. Even if you do not actually fall, the abrupt movements associated with a slip or trip can leave you with serious injuries.
According to the National Floor Safety Institute, slips and falls account for more than one million hospital emergency room visits each year. The lawyers at our MN slip and fall law firm have represented clients suffering from:
- Muscle and tendon strains, sprains, and tears
- Dislocated joints
- Bruised or herniated discs
- Broken bones and hairline fractures
- Head and neck injuries, such as concussion and whiplash
When any type of slip and fall occurs, it is important to immediately notify the property owner, seek medical attention, and then speak with a slip and fall lawyer St. Paul MN residents trust right away. Serious conditions associated with slips and falls can have symptoms that may take days or even weeks to appear. Follow all instructions regarding treatment and adhere to any activity restrictions they recommend.
Protecting Yourself in Winter
A single and seemingly minor slip and fall injury can leave you requiring ongoing medical care while preventing you from performing certain tasks on your job or engaging in your favorite hobbies and activities. To protect yourself, it is important to wear non-skid shoes both during and after rain or in heavy fog, when moisture tends to accumulate. Be vigilant in holding handrails and walking only on paved sidewalks and walkways.
If you are a property owner, it is important to be aware that you can be held liable when slips and falls occur. Whether you own a home, store, or business, Travelers Insurance recommends taking the following steps to protect yourself and visitors to your property:
- Remove even thin coatings of ice at the first opportunity
- Place non-slip mats at doorway entrances and exits
- Wipe up puddles and spills as soon as they happen
- Place warning signs in areas where rain, condensation, or other moisture tends to build-up
Contact a Minnesota Slip and Fall Attorney Today
When slips and falls occur, property owners can be held liable either through an insurance company claim or by filing a premises liability lawsuit. To discuss how skilled attorneys from our slip and fall law firm in MN can help you get compensation for the injuries you suffer, call Johnston Martineau, PLLP for a free consultation today.
