Winter in Northeast Ohio can be brutal, bringing snow and ice that turn everyday errands into risky ventures. Slip and fall accidents on icy sidewalks, parking lots, and driveways are common, but can you sue for falling on ice or snow?
The personal injury attorneys at Mizak & Pacetti, LLC in Parma, Ohio, understand how dangerous winter conditions can be. But when it comes to legal responsibility, not every fall on ice or snow qualifies for a lawsuit.
When Is a Property Owner Not Liable for a Slip and Fall on Ice or Snow?
Under Ohio law, property owners are generally not responsible for injuries caused by natural accumulations of snow or ice. Courts assume that Ohio residents are familiar with winter hazards and should take reasonable care when walking on icy or snowy surfaces.
This means that simply slipping on untreated ice in a parking lot or on a sidewalk usually won’t be enough to hold the property owner accountable. Even if a property owner shovels or salts, courts recognize that snow piles, ice patches, and runoff can still occur as part of normal winter maintenance.
When Can You Sue a Property Owner for Falling on Ice or Snow?
There are key exceptions under Ohio law where a property owner can be held responsible for slip and fall injuries due to ice or snow.
1. Unnatural Accumulations of Ice and Snow
A property owner may be liable if they create or allow an unnatural accumulation of ice or snow. This doesn’t include typical snow removal activities but refers to conditions that make icy patches more dangerous than usual.
Examples of unnatural accumulations include:
- Leaking or broken gutters that drip water onto walkways, which then freezes.
- Poor drainage systems causing water to pool and freeze in high-traffic areas.
- Improper disposal of snow that leads to dangerous runoff or ice patches.
In these cases, if the property owner’s negligence caused the unnatural ice buildup, they could be responsible for your injuries.
2. Hidden Hazards Covered by Ice or Snow
If ice or snow conceals a dangerous condition on the property, the owner may be liable for injuries. These hazards could include:
- Potholes or cracks in the pavement.
- Sudden changes in elevation or hidden curbs.
- Openings or holes that are not visible due to snow or ice coverage.
For a successful claim, it must be shown that the hazardous condition was hidden and that a reasonable person wouldn’t have known about it. However, if you were already aware of the hazard, the property owner may not be held liable.
Can You Sue If There’s Only One Entrance or Exit?
Ohio law provides another exception when a building has only one accessible entrance or exit. If that sole route is covered in ice or snow, the property owner could be held responsible for injuries.
The logic here is simple — if there’s no alternative safe path, visitors can’t avoid the dangerous area. Property owners are expected to take reasonable steps to clear the path and make it safe, especially if they know it’s the only way in or out.
What to Do If You’ve Fallen on Ice or Snow in Parma, Ohio
If you were injured after a slip and fall on ice or snow, it’s important to take action quickly:
- Document the scene — Take photos of the area where you fell, showing the ice or snow and any potential hazards.
- Seek medical attention — Even if injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to get checked out and create a medical record.
- Report the incident — Notify the property owner or manager and request a written report.
- Contact an attorney — Navigating Ohio slip and fall laws can be tricky. An experienced Parma personal injury attorney can help determine if you have a valid claim.
The attorneys at Mizak & Pacetti, LLC are here to help. We offer free consultations and can review the details of your fall to see if the property owner may be liable for your injuries.
Call Mizak & Pacetti Today for a Free Consultation
Don’t let medical bills and lost wages pile up after a slip and fall accident. Contact the Parma, Ohio personal injury lawyers at Mizak & Pacetti, LLC to discuss your case. We’ll help you understand your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve.