When someone slips and falls on an icy sidewalk, it’s important to figure out who is responsible for snow or ice removal. Rules can vary based on the type of building and the local laws, but it’s necessary to get to the bottom of this if you or a loved one suffered injuries due to someone else’s negligence. Our Monmouth County sidewalk accident attorneys can help you with this.
Do Property Owners Have to Handle Snow or Ice Removal?
If the building near the sidewalk is a commercial property, it’s usually the owner of that property who is responsible for snow or ice removal. This usually applies to landlords of multi-family residential properties as well.
In many places, the owner of a residential property like a single-family home is not actually responsible for clearing the sidewalk of snow or ice. It’s a good idea, obviously, but it’s not always mandated by the state or local laws. That’s why it’s crucial to do some research and figure out exactly which laws applied to a snowy or icy sidewalk after you have fallen.
Can Landlords Make Their Tenants Perform Snow or Ice Removal?
It’s also important to note that some landlords give up this responsibility and pass it along to their tenants. If a lease agreement says that a renter of the property is supposed to handle snow or ice removal, then they are the ones who have to clean up after a winter storm.
Can Someone Be Held Liable For Injuries Caused By Snow or Ice?
Yes, if someone slips and falls then the person who should have handled snow or ice removal duties can be held accountable. So if you got injured on an icy sidewalk near a building, you may be able to sue the building owner, a landlord, or a tenant who was charged with keeping the sidewalk clean.
A potential complication can arise if the city or municipality is responsible for clearing this particular sidewalk. You can still sue for damages, but the process for suing a government entity is different. You’ll definitely want to speak to a lawyer.
When Should I Talk to a Lawyer?
No matter where you fall, you should make getting medical attention your first priority. Then it’s time to consider making an appointment with a lawyer. A personal injury lawyer can help you determine if you have a viable case and they can help you gather the evidence needed to make a stronger argument for compensation. They can also help you figure out who needs to be held accountable for your injuries.
Schedule Your Case Consultation
If you want to learn more about what our attorneys can do to assist you, contact the Wilton Law Firm and schedule a consultation. We can tell you more about your legal options and the potential value of your personal injury case.
