It is that time of year again. Sidewalks are covered in snow and ice, floors are wet with melted snow, and the potential for a slip and fall accident is greater than ever. Winter weather can be extremely dangerous for a number of reasons, but fall accidents can be especially harmful to elderly people and those in poor health.
Slipping and falling can lead to traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, internal organ injuries, back injuries, and other painful consequences. Although Illinois law generally allows slip and fall accident victims to pursue financial compensation for their injuries, there are special laws regarding injuries related to snow and ice.
Natural Accumulation of Snow and Ice Versus Unnatural Accumulation
Most people agree that shoveling the sidewalk and keeping your property free of ice is part of being a good neighbor or a responsible business owner. However, property owners are not always liable for snow and ice injuries on their property. If a fall accident is caused by a “natural accumulation” of snow or ice, the property owner is usually not liable. However, if a fall occurs because of an unnatural accumulation of snow or ice, the property owner may be liable for damages.
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