Winter Slip and Fall Injuries Are on the Rise: What You Need to Know

This winter, much of the U.S. has been hit with extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and icy conditions, creating hazardous walking surfaces in high-traffic areas. From sidewalks and parking lots to store entrances and office buildings, property owners must take proper precautions to prevent injuries. Unfortunately, many fail to do so, leading to a sharp rise in slip and fall accidents.

At Bottaro Law, we have seen firsthand how serious slip and fall injuries can be. If a property owner’s negligence led to your injury, you may be entitled to compensation. Here’s what you need to know about winter slip and fall accidents, property owner responsibilities, and your legal rights.

Why Are Slip and Fall Cases Increasing This Winter?

The extreme winter weather across the country has created dangerous walking conditions in parking lots, sidewalks, shopping centers, apartment complexes, and office buildings. When snow and ice aren’t properly removed or treated, these areas become hazardous, leading to painful and sometimes life-altering injuries.

Some of the most common causes of winter slip and falls include:

• Untreated Icy Sidewalks and Walkways – Property owners must shovel and salt to prevent dangerous conditions.
• Slippery Store Entrances – Snow and slush tracked in from outside can create slippery floors inside businesses.
• Neglected Parking Lots – Ice patches and uneven surfaces become extremely dangerous in grocery stores, shopping malls, and other high-traffic locations.
• Poor Lighting – Icy spots become even more dangerous at night or in dimly lit areas.

With thousands of people slipping and falling each winter, businesses and property owners must act responsibly to reduce risks—or they could be held liable for injuries.

What Property Owners Should Be Doing to Prevent Injuries

Property and business owners in Rhode Island have a legal duty to keep their premises safe for visitors and customers. This includes taking necessary precautions to reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents during extreme winter conditions.

Here’s what property owners should be doing:

✅ Shoveling and Salting Regularly – Snow and ice should be cleared in a timely manner and sidewalks/parking lots should be salted or treated.
✅ Mopping Up Slippery Floors – Stores should use wet floor signs and frequently mop up melted snow to prevent customers from slipping.
✅ Providing Adequate Lighting – Dimly lit areas make icy patches even more dangerous, so businesses should ensure entrances and walkways are well-lit.
✅ Installing Non-Slip Mats – Entryways should have rubber or absorbent mats to reduce wet, slippery floors.
✅ Inspecting Their Property Regularly – Business owners and landlords should conduct daily inspections to address hazards before someone gets hurt.

When property owners fail to take these precautions, their negligence can result in serious injuries—and they may be held legally responsible for damages.

Common Slip and Fall Injuries: How Serious Can They Be?

Many people underestimate how severe a slip and fall injury can be. While some falls result in minor bruises or soreness, others lead to life-altering injuries that require extensive medical treatment.

Some of the most common slip and fall injuries we see include:

• Head Injuries & Concussions – Slipping on ice can cause a person to hit their head on concrete or tile, leading to traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or concussions.
• Broken Bones – Wrists, arms, hips, and ankles are common fracture sites, especially among older adults.
• Spinal Cord & Back Injuries – Falls can cause herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or chronic back pain.
• Knee and Ankle Sprains – Twisting while falling can result in torn ligaments and long-term mobility issues.
• Severe Bruising & Soft Tissue Damage – Deep bruises can be extremely painful and may require medical attention.

In severe cases, a slip and fall injury can require surgery, physical therapy, and months of recovery time—impacting a person’s ability to work and enjoy life.

If your injury was caused by a property owner’s failure to clear ice or fix hazards, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How Bottaro Law Helps Slip and Fall Victims in Rhode Island

At Bottaro Law, we have extensive experience representing slip and fall injury victims in Rhode Island. If you were hurt due to a property owner’s negligence, we are here to fight for your rights.

Here’s how we help:

✅ Investigating Your Case – We gather evidence, including security footage, witness statements, and property maintenance records, to prove negligence.
✅ Fighting for Maximum Compensation – We work hard to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
✅ Holding Negligent Property Owners Accountable – Businesses, landlords, and property owners must be held responsible for failing to maintain safe premises.
✅ No Fee Guarantee – You don’t pay anything unless we win your case.

Slip and fall accidents can be physically and financially devastating—but you don’t have to face it alone. Let us handle the legal fight while you focus on healing.

Were You Injured in a Slip and Fall Accident? Contact Bottaro Law Today!

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to slipping on ice or hazardous conditions, you may be entitled to compensation. Property owners have a duty to keep their premises safe—and when they fail, they should be held accountable.

📞 Call us at (401) 777-7777 or contact us online for a free consultation today.

Let Bottaro Law help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.