Did you slip and fall on an icy sidewalk in North Dakota? You could be entitled to compensation from a personal injury claim. Here’s what you need to know about your legal rights.
Property Owner Responsibility for Sidewalks in North Dakota
North Dakota property owners have a legal duty to maintain the sidewalks adjacent to their land. Under North Dakota law, property owners must keep sidewalks in good repair and free from snow and other obstructions. If a property owner fails to remove snow or ice from a sidewalk on their premises within a reasonable timeframe, the municipality can step in to clear it. If this happens, the municipality will bill the property owner for the removal.
Who Is Liable for Weather-Related Slip-and-Fall Accidents?
Liability for weather-related slip-and-fall accidents on North Dakota sidewalks depends on several factors, including who controls the property and whether they fulfilled their legal duties.
In most cases, property owners bear the responsibility for keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice. This includes removing snow and ice within a certain time frame per local ordinances. If a property owner fails to clear an icy or snowy sidewalk, they could face liability if someone slips and falls due to the unsafe conditions.
Liability could also fall on local governments in some weather-related slip-and-fall cases. Municipalities in North Dakota are responsible for maintaining public sidewalks under their control and removing snow and ice as necessary. If the government fails to clear dangerous conditions in a timely manner, it could face liability for resulting slip-and-fall accidents. However, holding a government entity accountable is more complicated than suing a private property owner. North Dakota has specific laws governing claims against government entities, so legal representation is essential if you believe you have this type of claim.
Common Injuries in Slip-and-Fall Accidents on Ice
Slipping and falling on snowy or icy sidewalks can result in severe injuries because the cold and slippery conditions make it harder for people to protect themselves during a fall. Common injuries that can result from slipping and falling on icy sidewalks include:
- Concussions
- Fractured wrists
- Broken hips
- Sprained ankles
- Torn ligaments
- Dislocated shoulders
- Broken collarbones
- Fractured ribs
- Spinal cord injuries
- Herniated discs
- Bruised tailbones
- Torn menisci
- Muscle strains
- Head trauma
- Whiplash
- Knee injuries
- Elbow fractures
- Facial fractures
- Broken teeth
- Internal bleeding
- Cuts and lacerations
- Nerve damage
- Pelvic fractures
- Broken fingers
- Hip dislocations
What to Do After a Slip-and-Fall Accident on an Icy Sidewalk
If you slip and fall on an icy sidewalk in North Dakota, you should take certain steps afterward to protect your health and your legal options. Here’s what you can do:
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if you think your injuries are minor. Follow your doctor’s advice for treatment and recovery. Keep records of all medical treatments, including doctor visits, medications, and therapies.
- Document the scene by taking photos or videos of the icy conditions where the fall happened. Get contact information from any witnesses who saw the fall.
- Report the accident to the property owner or manager as soon as possible. Avoid making statements about fault or apologizing, as this could affect your claim.
- File an official report with the local municipality if the accident happened on public property. Ask for copies of any accident reports or documentation.
- Save any bills or receipts related to your medical care or accident expenses. Start a journal detailing your pain levels, treatments, and how the injuries affect your daily life.
- Consult a lawyer who can evaluate your case and explain your legal rights.
- Avoid discussing the accident or your injuries on social media.
Contact a North Dakota Slip-and-Fall Attorney Now
If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident on an icy sidewalk, remember you don’t have to handle the legal process alone. Contact Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. today to schedule an initial consultation. Our team will listen to your situation and discuss how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. is committed to supporting individuals in North Dakota, including Grand Forks, Minot, Fargo, Bismarck, Williston, Rugby, Devils Lake, Jamestown, and the surrounding areas. Our dedicated team is here to provide legal assistance and guidance to those facing the complex challenges that arise from these incidents.
