While Texas is not known for having particularly cold winters, there are some areas of the state that may occasionally see snow and ice. Walking on snow and ice can be dangerous. In some areas, property owners are responsible for maintaining sidewalks and walkways throughout the year. In winter, this includes adding a chemical compound to walkways to remove ice so that the area is safe for pedestrians. A fall could lead to injuries and allow the victim to sue the owner for failing to maintain their property.
Falling on ice can lead to serious injuries
When someone slips on ice, they often put their hands out to attempt to brace for impact. This frequently leads to wrist fractures, which may require surgery to heal properly. A fall where someone lands on their shoulder can cause a shoulder separation or injury to the rotator cuff.
If someone falls and lands on their back, they may suffer from herniated discs or other back issues. These can be very painful and can require a significant recovery time and much treatment to heal. While being cautious can prevent some falls due to icy conditions, it’s important to know that laws do require property owners to be vigilant in keeping their sidewalks and parking lots safe for pedestrians.
Seek help when injured in a fall
Premises liability laws are complicated. Not all injuries from falls are due to the negligence of a property owner. When someone falls on another person’s property and suffers injuries, they should speak with a Texas attorney to understand if they have legal standing to file a civil lawsuit against the property owner.