Winter in Michigan brings icy sidewalks and other conditions that can make everyday activities hazardous. Many slip and fall accidents occur during this time because liable parties like property owners and maintenance companies (and even government entities in some cases) fail to take reasonable steps to keep their premises safe.
If you slipped and fell on snow or ice, you may be entitled to compensation depending on who was responsible for maintaining the area where you were hurt.
In the sections to follow, we’ll explain how Michigan law determines liability for winter slip and fall accidents and what steps you should take to protect your rights. If you need help with a claim, contact a Troy slip and fall lawyer for a free case review today.
Premises Liability and Winter Weather in Michigan
Slip and fall accidents caused by ice or snow typically fall under premises liability law. This area of law requires property owners, landlords, and sometimes tenants to maintain reasonably safe conditions for those who enter their property.
The level of responsibility depends, at least in part, on your status as a visitor:
- Invitees: Customers, delivery drivers, and others entering a premises for a business purpose. Owners owe them the highest duty of care and must regularly inspect and clear walkways.
- Licensees: Social guests or individuals with permission to visit a property for non-business reasons. Owners must warn them of known hazards, such as black ice near a doorway.
- Trespassers: Those without permission generally receive the least protection, except when children are involved.
These cases generally come down to the concept of negligence at the end of the day, which means essentially the same thing as “carelessness.” Your Troy slip and fall attorney can evaluate whether the property owner met their duty of care under Michigan law.
What Should I Do After a Winter Slip and Fall in Michigan?
If you’re injured in a Michigan winter slip and fall accident, taking the right steps immediately can help you build a successful claim.
- Report the incident to the applicable property owner, landlord, or store manager.
- Document the conditions with photos or videos before the snow or ice melts.
- Get contact information from witnesses who saw the accident.
- Seek medical attention right away to document your injuries.
- Consult a premises liability lawyer before speaking with insurance adjusters.
A qualified Troy slip and fall lawyer can take important steps on your behalf, like investigating the property owner’s actions internally and determining whether they violated any local ordinances or other applicable policies and laws. Working with a slip and fall attorney early in the process ensures critical evidence is preserved and your claim is properly documented.
Contact a Troy Slip and Fall Lawyer at Khamo Law for a Free Consultation
Determining who is liable for a Michigan winter slip and fall accident often depends on many factors, such as where the accident happened and who controlled the property. However, what’s important to remember is that there’s at least a chance you have a valid claim, no matter whether your incident took place on private or public property.
Our team of slip and fall attorneys at Khamo Law is here to help you evaluate and follow through with your best course of action. Call our Troy slip and fall lawyers today at (248) 466-0606 or complete our online form for a free initial consultation to get started.