‘Tis the season to avoid slip and falls!

Minnesota winters can be an exciting time of year.  With many outdoor family activities such as ice fishing, snowboarding, and sledding with the kids, there are many opportunities to have fun in the snow.  However, as playful as it can be, snow and ice can be just as dangerous.

1. Who is responsible if I slip and fall on snow and ice on someone’s property?

In Minnesota, a property owner must use reasonable care to prevent others from being injured by the conditions on the property.  Reasonable care includes inspecting, repairing, and warning of an unsafe risk on the property.  This includes snow and ice buildup accumulated during the winter. 

1. Who will pay my medical expenses if I slip on and fall on snow and ice on another’s property?

Generally, most insurance policies which cover a home or business have a “medical-payment” provision.  This provision is often referred to as “med-pay” and will cover a portion of your medical expenses if you slip and fall on someone else’s property.  It may cover emergency visits, therapy, and prescriptions, among others.  The amount of expenses covered will depend on the type of policy on the home or business.

If there are no med-pay benefits available, or if those benefits have been used, your personal health insurance will then cover your medical expenses.

1. What can I do to avoid slipping and falling on snow and ice?

There is no fool-proof method to avoid slip and fall accidents.  They are just that – accidents.  However, there are precautions you can take to minimize the likelihood of slipping and falling on snow and ice.  Although obvious, these precautions include wearing proper shoes such as snow boots, watching your steps, taking slow, steady steps where you walk, and avoiding areas where snow and ice has covered.

Slipping and falling on snow and ice can ruin the joys of winter, and the aftermath of an accident can be confusing and stressful.  It is important to contact an experienced attorney to help you navigate this situation as smoothly as possible. 

If you or your loved one has been injured, please call one of our experienced attorneys at Aaron Ferguson Law at (651) 493-0426 to schedule a free consultation.