When cold temperatures arrive and snow and ice blanket the ground, winter safety hazards loom large. Many people file winter personal injury claims because of these seasonal hazards. Find out which types of cases are prevalent during this time of year and how a personal injury attorney may be able to assist.
How Winter Weather Prompts Many Personal Injuries
Driving on slick roads covered in black ice is a serious safety hazard. Many drivers end up hurt in winter car accidents due to snowy, icy conditions. Pedestrians are also at risk of injury if drivers cannot see them while the snow is falling, or if they lose control of their vehicle on an icy surface.
It’s not just motorists who are in danger. Someone could be walking through a business’s parking lot, slip, and fall on a patch of ice on the property. Being struck by a falling icicle also falls under the category of snow and ice injuries.
Even faulty plows or snowblowers can injure users, leaving them seriously hurt and impacting their quality of life.
Common Winter Personal Injury Claims Indiana Locals File
What type of legal claims correspond with your wintertime injury? Below are some common injury claims people file during this time of year:
- Premises liability cases: Slip-and-fall accidents raise questions over a property owner’s liability.
- Car accident cases: Collisions often occur due to reduced visibility or icy roads.
- Workplace accidents: Employees may become hurt on the job if they work in dangerous conditions, such as freezing temperatures.
- Product liability cases: Defective equipment, like snowblowers or space heaters, may cause serious injuries, prompting a product liability case.
What To Expect When Working With a Personal Injury Lawyer
Partner with an experienced attorney who handles winter personal injury claims. They can help you gather evidence supporting your claim, such as witness statements, police accident reports, and surveillance footage of the accident. Legal professionals assess your losses and help you claim certain damages, including:
- Reimbursed medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage repairs
- Emotional distress damages
The insurance provider representing the defendant will review your claim and may propose a settlement offer. Knowledgeable attorneys could negotiate the offer if they don’t believe it adequately reflects your losses.
Consult an Attorney About Your Winter-Related Personal Injury Case
If you’re one of the many people injured due to black ice and other unsafe conditions, speak with a legal professional about your options. We at Stewart & Stewart Attorneys file various winter personal injury claims on behalf of our clients and protect their interests. Our experienced lawyers can review your case’s details and explore different legal strategies.
Connect with us today to get started. Call 1-866-926-2419 or submit our online request form to schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about filing personal injury claims following a wintertime accident.
How Long Do I Have To File a Claim?
In Indiana, you have two years from the date of your injury to pursue a legal claim. Starting the process sooner rather than later is advisable.
I Was Injured at Work. Can I Sue My Employer?
It depends. Many injured employees can only file a workers’ compensation claim. If an employer doesn’t carry this insurance or intentionally causes you harm, you may have grounds to sue them.
What Should I Do After an Injury?
After an accident leaves you injured, seek prompt medical attention. You should also document the accident scene with photos or videos, if possible, and gather witness statements. Then, consult an attorney about filing a winter personal injury claim.