Winter in Illinois brings snow, ice, and freezing rain, creating hazardous conditions for everyone. For stores and other businesses, the stakes are even higher. Customers rely on property owners to maintain safe premises, but all too often, a trip to the store ends with a painful slip or trip. If you’ve been injured due to unsafe conditions at a store, it’s important to understand businesses’ responsibilities to prevent accidents and protect visitors.
What Are a Store’s Legal Responsibilities?
Under Illinois premises liability laws, store owners and managers are responsible for keeping their property reasonably safe for customers, employees, and visitors. This obligation addresses winter-specific hazards such as slippery sidewalks, icy parking lots, and wet floors from tracked-in snow.
Key Responsibilities of Stores
- Clearing Snow and Ice: Businesses must take reasonable steps to remove snow and ice from walkways, entrances, and parking lots.
- Applying Salt or Sand: After clearing snow, store owners should apply salt or sand to prevent ice from forming or to improve traction.
- Warning Customers of Hazards: If slippery conditions cannot be immediately resolved, stores must use signs, cones, or barricades to alert customers.
- Maintaining Safe Entrances: Wet floors from tracked-in snow should be cleaned promptly, and mats should be placed at entrances to reduce slipperiness.
Failing to take these precautions can leave a business liable for injuries caused by slips and trips on their property.
Common Hazards in Winter
Despite a store’s legal obligations, winter conditions create unique hazards that can lead to accidents. Some of the most common dangers include:
- Uncleared Sidewalks: Snow and ice on walkways leading to the store.
- Icy Parking Lots: Patches of black ice in parking areas can be difficult to see, leading to serious falls.
- Slippery Entrances: Water from melted snow often accumulates at entrances, creating slick floors.
- Falling Snow or Ice: Snow or icicles falling from roofs or awnings pose risks to customers entering or exiting the store.
Customers should expect a safe shopping experience, free from these avoidable dangers.
How Stores Can Prevent Accidents
Preventing slip-and-fall accidents during winter isn’t just about meeting legal requirements—it’s also good business practice. Stores can take several proactive measures to minimize hazards:
1. Regular Maintenance and Inspections
Store owners should regularly inspect their property for hazards, especially during or after snowfall. A prompt response to changing conditions is critical for customer safety.
2. Install Non-Slip Mats
Non-slip mats at store entrances help absorb water and provide better traction for customers. Rotating wet mats for dry ones throughout the day can further reduce risks.
3. Train Employees
Staff should be trained to recognize and address winter hazards. Assigning employees to monitor entrances and clear spills or puddles can prevent accidents.
4. Hire Snow Removal Services
Many businesses hire professional snow removal companies to keep sidewalks and parking lots safe. This ensures timely and effective maintenance during heavy snowfall.
What to Do If You’re Injured in a Store
If you slip or trip in a store due to unsafe winter conditions, acting quickly to protect your health and rights is important. Follow these steps:
- Report the Incident: Notify the store manager immediately and ask for a written incident report.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the hazards that caused your fall, such as ice, wet floors, or inadequate warning signs.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, see a doctor to assess potential damage and begin treatment.
- Keep Records: Save medical bills, receipts, and any communication with the store or insurance company.
- Consult an Attorney: Premises liability cases can be complex, and an experienced attorney can help you determine whether the store is liable for your injuries.
Contact Stein & Shulman, LLC Today
At Stein & Shulman, we know how life-changing a slip or trip injury can be. Our experienced attorneys have helped countless clients secure meaningful compensation for their injuries and losses. If you’ve been injured due to a store’s negligence, contact us for a free consultation, and let us take the stress out of your recovery.
