Winter Weather Makes Slips & Falls More Likely
South Carolina has undergone a recent cold spell, as has much of the nation. While cold and precipitation does not rival that experienced up north, it has been enough to leave roads and sidewalks icy and slick. If past years are an example, we can expect these types of conditions to occur off and on clear through March and early April. More than just an inconvenience, it can make personal injuries more likely to occur. Slip and fall accidents can easily result in lasting disabilities. The following outlines some of the common conditions victims suffer, and what you can do if this type of accident occurs.
Slip & Fall Accidents And Injuries
South Carolina saw temperatures that dipped down to well below freezing in the early days of 2018, causing school and work delays along with an increase in road accidents. According to Accuweather, these types of cold temperatures tend to occur at some point each winter even in our temperate southern climate, and make slip and fall accidents more likely at this time of year.
In addition to icy patches on sidewalks and walkways, melting snow and freezing rain can cause puddles at entrances and exits of homes, restaurants, office buildings, and stores. Even a minor slip and fall accident can end up doing serious damage, resulting in the following types of injuries:
Soft tissue injuries, such as muscle or tendon sprains, strains, and tears
Broken bones and hairline fractures, particularly in the ankles, wrists, arms, and hips
Back and neck injuries, including whiplash and slipped or herniated disks
Injuries to the spinal cord
Head injuries, including concussion and skull fractures
Anytime a slip and fall occurs, it is important to file an accident report either with the property owner, on site security, or with local law enforcement. Note the date, time, and circumstances under which your accident occurred, get the names and contact information for any witnesses at the scene, and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Compensation For Slip & Fall Injuries
Even if you suspect your injuries are minor, it is important to get checked by a doctor and to follow all of their instructions. Certain conditions have symptoms which can take days, weeks, or even months to fully appear, and failing to get treatment will jeopardize your rights in an accident claim.
Under the South Carolina Code of Laws, property owners can be held liable when others are hurt on their property. They could be considered negligent for either of the following:
For failing to address a dangerous condition, such as icy sidewalks or wet floors;
For failing to warn visitors to their property that the condition existed.
Get Help Today
Failure to remove snow or ice or to put out warning signs could make them legally responsible for paying any current and future medical expenses and lost wages you suffer. If you have suffered injuries as the result of a slip and fall, reach out and contact the Surasky Law Firm, LLC online today. We can arrange a free consultation with our Aiken personal injury attorney, who can advise you on how to get the compensation you need to recover.
