Chicago winters can be brutal. Between the frigid temperatures, snow, and ice, sometimes it seems like spring may never arrive. Chicago sees the majority of its snowfall from New Years Day until February, averaging 10 inches of snow per month. Ice and snow can cause falls and other serious injuries. A fall on ice is not uncommon in Chicago winters. But who is liable if you fall on icy sidewalks, driveways or walkways?
With icy conditions on our streets, roads, and sidewalks, falls and serious injuries can become more common. Falls on snow or ice can cause you to break bones, cause concussions or worse. Illinois law can protect property owners and managers and prevent you from recovering compensation for your injuries. So what should you do if you fall and are injured as a result of snow and ice accumulation?
The Illinois Snow and Ice Removal Act allows for injured individuals to seek compensation for their injuries from property owners if an “unnatural accumulation” of snow or ice caused them to slip, fall and become injured. These unnatural accumulations can come defects in properties, code violations, or negligent removal of the ice and snow.
The Snow and Ice Removal Act does not require property owners or managers to clear ice and snow from sidewalks. They are also not required to remove a “natural accumulation” of ice or snow. Because of this, the Act protects landowners and landlords from liability in many slip-and-fall cases.
The facts of a case must be carefully investigated to determine the actual cause of the dangerous conditions. If an unnatural accumulation of ice or snow caused you to slip and fall, the owner or manager of the property where you were injured could be held liable.
It’s important to speak with a lawyer who is well versed in the Snow and Ice Removal Act and who understands the complexities of winter weather slip and falls. I handle cases involving improper snow and ice removal frequently and can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact me today to learn how I can help you with your slip and fall case.