As the colder months approach, we all anticipate cosy evenings by the fireplace and the enchanting beauty of winter landscapes. However, with the drop in temperatures comes a potential increase in public accidents due to poor weather conditions. Slippery sidewalks, treacherous roads and hidden potholes can turn a winter wonderland into a nightmare. With winter on the approach, it’s important to stay vigilant to avoid suffering a public accident.
The Perils of Icy Roads
One of the most common causes of accidents during the colder months is icy roads. As temperatures drop, moisture on the road can freeze and turn into a treacherous skating rink for unsuspecting drivers. This can lead to car accidents, often resulting in serious injuries or even fatalities. Additionally, black ice, which is almost invisible, poses a significant threat to drivers.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident due to poor road conditions, it’s crucial to understand your rights. Most UK roads are maintained by the local councils, however there are some private roads which are not. In many cases, negligent road maintenance or failure to salt and sand the roads can can result in a public accident, and you may be entitled to claim.
Potholes: The Hidden Danger
Potholes are another winter hazard that can cause accidents and injuries. When snow and ice melt and refreeze, it can create cracks in the road surface that eventually develop into potholes. These seemingly harmless depressions in the road can wreak havoc on your vehicle, by puncturing or your tyres or jolting your steering.
Moreover, pedestrians are not exempt from the dangers of potholes. Uneven pavements, cracked sidewalks, and hidden potholes can cause slips, trips, and falls, leading to various injuries such as broken bones, sprains, and head injuries.
If you’ve suffered an injury due to a pothole or poor sidewalk conditions, it’s crucial to document the incident. Take photographs of the pothole and measure the depth of it, as this will be crucial evidence should you choose to make a personal injury claim for your injuries.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents are unfortunately all too common during the colder months. As temperatures drop, snow and ice accumulate on sidewalks, parking lots, and other public areas. When property owners fail to clear these hazards, pedestrians are at risk of slipping and falling, leading to injuries like fractures, concussions, and soft tissue damage.
Property owners have a responsibility to maintain safe premises for visitors and customers. If they neglect this duty, they may be held liable for injuries that occur on their property. Sometimes it can be difficult to determine the party responsible for maintaining the land on which an accident occurred, however personal injury solicitors are experienced in obtaining this information and can do this on your behalf.
Inadequate Snow Removal
In regions with heavy snowfall, inadequate snow removal can be a significant problem. When businesses and municipalities fail to clear snow and ice from parking lots, walkways, and entrances, they create hazardous conditions in which a public accident could occur.
The ground beneath snowfall can ice over in severely low temperatures. This ice creates a solid surface and can cause significant injury to an individual who slips and falls. These accidents can result in severe fractures, spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries, which can have devastating and lasting consequences.
Seeking Legal Advice for a Public Accident
Navigating the legal complexities of public accidents during colder months can be challenging and most people do not know where to start. But you don’t have to go through it alone. A personal injury law firm can provide the guidance and support you need during this difficult time.
A personal injury solicitor will be your advocate throughout the claims process. Your solicitor will conduct a thorough investigation of your public accident to gather evidence and determine liability. This may involve reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and consulting experts. They will also gather and organise all relevant documentation on your behalf, in the form of medical records, police reports, and maintenance records.
Using the information they have obtained, your solicitor will develop a legal strategy tailored to your specific case, aiming to maximise your chances of obtaining fair compensation. Negotiations will take place between the defendants insurance company as well as any other responsible parties, until a settlement has been reached. Should the level of compensation not be satisfactory, your case manager will be prepared to take your case to court if necessary.
Why Stonehewer Moss Solicitors?
While winter brings its own unique charm, it also brings an increased risk of public accidents due to poor weather conditions. Whether you’ve been injured in a car accident, slip and fall incident, or any other type of public accident, it’s essential to know that you have legal options.
At Stonehewer Moss we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that these accidents can take on individuals and their families. We are here to provide you with compassionate and knowledgeable legal representation on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. If you or a loved one has suffered a public accident during the colder months, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free consultation.
To learn more about No Win No Fee claims, watch this short video.
Talk to our claims solicitor
Call us on freephone 0800 434 6544 or 01606 87 22 00
Email us at info@stonehewermoss.co.uk
