Alabama’s climate is warm and humid much of the year. However, the state has enough seasonal variation to present different types of accident risks at different times of the year. Whether in the midst of a torrential downpour or a frosty winter night, Alabama property owners have a legal duty to protect visitors from preventable slip-and-fall hazards.
If you have suffered injuries in a slip-and-fall incident because an Alabama property owner failed to address a seasonal hazard, you could be entitled to compensation. Demonstrating fault in these cases can be challenging, but you don’t have to handle this difficult task alone.
The skilled slip-and-fall accident lawyers at Morris, King & Hodge, P.C., have a proven track record of maximizing compensation for injury victims across Northern Alabama. Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation to learn how we can seek the maximum financial recovery you deserve.
Common Seasonal Slip-and-Fall Hazards
Each of Alabama’s diverse seasons brings unique risks for slip-and-fall accidents. Property owners must remain vigilant year-round to protect visitors from these changing hazards. Let’s explore some common seasonal dangers that arise at different times of the year.
Fall Hazards
The autumn months present the following slip-and-fall hazards in Alabama:
- Wet leaves – Fallen leaves accumulating on walkways or tracked inside can create surprisingly slippery surfaces.
- Earlier sunsets – Reduced visibility in parking lots and outdoor areas can lead to dangerous falls.
- Uneven surfaces – Tree roots and shifting soil can create new trip hazards as the ground settles.
Winter Hazards
From December to February, Alabama residents can suffer slip-and-fall injuries due to:
- Icy patches – Freezing temperatures can create dangerously icy spots on sidewalks and steps.
- Wet entryways – Tracking rain or snow indoors can make floors unexpectedly slippery.
- Poor lighting – Shorter days mean more time in hazardous low-light conditions.
Spring Hazards
As the weather starts to warm in springtime, the following slip-and-fall risks become more significant:
- Sudden rainstorms – Wet floors in stores and offices pose instant slip risks.
- Pollen accumulation – Accumulated pollen mixed with rainwater can create slick surfaces on outdoor walkways.
- Uneven pavement – Freeze-thaw cycles can cause cracks and heaving in sidewalks and parking lots.
Summer Hazards
The hottest months of the year present slip, trip, and fall hazards due to:
- Cracked concrete – Heat expansion can worsen existing cracks and gaps in pavement.
- Pool decks – Water accumulation around swimming areas can create significant slip risks.
- Outdoor events – Temporary event setups often have unsecured cords or uneven flooring.
What to Do After a Slip-and-Fall Accident
If you experience a slip-and-fall accident due to a property owner’s negligence in Alabama, take these crucial steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek medical attention. Get an evaluation from a doctor as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor. Keep all medical records and follow your doctor’s treatment plan carefully.
- Report the accident. Notify the property owner or manager as soon as possible so they can prepare an official incident report. Request a copy of the report for your records.
- Document everything. Take photos of your injuries, the hazard that caused your fall, and the surrounding area. Write down precisely what happened while your memory is fresh.
- Gather witness information. Request names and contact details from anyone who saw the accident. Ask if they would be willing to provide a statement about what they observed.
- Watch what you say. Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies, and never post about the accident on social media. Anything you say or share could be used against you.
- Contact Morris, King & Hodge, P.C. Reach out to our experienced slip-and-fall attorneys for a free consultation so we can explain your options and discuss how we can help.
Preventing Slip-and-Fall Injuries in Alabama
Alabama law requires property owners to maintain reasonably safe conditions for lawful visitors. The responsibility includes addressing known hazards and conducting regular inspections to identify potential dangers. Property owners can take proactive steps to minimize slip-and-fall risks by:
- Conducting regular maintenance – Inspecting and repairing walkways and stairs promptly
- Ensuring weather preparedness – Making plans for quick snow and ice removal in winter months
- Installing proper lighting – Ensuring all areas, especially stairs and parking lots, are well-lit
- Creating non-slip surfaces – Using mats and non-slip treatments in high-risk areas like entryways
- Posting clear signage – Warning visitors of potential hazards with visible, easy-to-read signs
Legal Implications of Slip-and-Fall Accidents in Alabama
In Alabama, property owners can be liable for slip-and-fall injuries if they fail to maintain safe premises or warn visitors of known hazards. To establish liability, victims must show:
- They were on the premises legally.
- The property owner failed to address a hazard they knew or reasonably should have known about.
- The owner’s negligence directly caused their injuries.
Alabama follows a contributory negligence rule, meaning if the injured party is in any way responsible for causing their injuries, they may be ineligible to recover compensation. As such, having skilled legal representation is crucial to demonstrate that the property owner bears full responsibility for your injuries from a fall on someone else’s property.
Contact Our Alabama Slip-and-Fall Accident Lawyers Today
Sustaining slip-and-fall injuries is always a painful shock. In some cases, a fall can even be a life-altering event with dire consequences for your finances, your career, and your well-being. If your serious injuries result from someone else’s negligence, you should not shoulder these burdens yourself. Working with an experienced Alabama slip-and-fall injury lawyer can give you the support and advocacy you need to hold the at-fault party accountable.
At Morris, King & Hodge, P.C., our skilled personal injury lawyers recognize how challenging life can get after a bad fall on someone else’s property. When you work with us, we put you first. We will do everything in our power to take the pressure off you by handling every aspect of your case while you focus on recovery. Whatever the season, we are here for you.
Contact us today for a free consultation with our experienced personal injury attorneys.
