Fall is now here, and the leaves are falling off most trees. While fall brings the welcome relief of cooler temperatures, those fallen leaves can pose a threat to people who walk on sidewalks, climb stairs or even walk across yards where those leaves have fallen.
Autumn leaves can lead to slip-and-fall injuries that pose liability concerns for property owners. For example, if an owner of a business does not rake wet leaves up off their pathways regularly, they could build up, become slick and create al hazard. It’s very important for property and business owners to take the hazard seriously and to clear fallen leaves when they are in walkways.
What to do if you slip and fall on leaves on another person’s property?
If you slip and fall on leaves, you may have a strong case for compensation. You will need to show that you suffered injuries as a result of the condition and that the owner knew about and should have cleared the leaves. Of course, a few leaves on a walkway throughout the day is normal, but large piles or patches that have been left to rot or gather moisture can be dangerous. Property owners should always clear leaves from stairs and walkways daily, if not more frequently.
If you are badly hurt due to the fall and can show that the property owner was not keeping up on the maintenance that was necessary at this time of year, then you may have a viable case. Your attorney can help you put together your claim, so you can file a premises liability lawsuit against the property owner.