Preparing for Icy Walkways: Winter Slip–and–Fall Risks in Minnesota & How to Protect Yourself
As temperatures drop and snow starts to fall across Minnesota, our beautiful winter season also brings serious risks. Each year, icy sidewalks, snow-packed steps, and slick parking lots lead to thousands of slip-and-fall injuries—many of them entirely preventable. In fact, falls are among the leading causes of emergency room visits during Minnesota’s cold months.
If you or someone you love suffers a winter slip-and-fall, it’s important to understand your legal rights. Property owners in Minnesota have a responsibility to keep walkways safe—and when they fail, they may be liable.
🌨️ Why Winter Brings a Surge in Slip-and-Fall Accidents
Winter in Minnesota is known for extreme weather swings. These changes can create dangerous walking conditions, especially when:
- Snow melts and refreezes into black ice
- Freezing rain coats surfaces unexpectedly
- Snow accumulates on unshoveled sidewalks
- Slush gathers in store entrances and parking lots
These conditions can make even routine errands a hazard—especially for older adults, delivery drivers, and workers on the go.
🚶 Common Places Where Slip-and-Falls Happen
While anyone can slip anywhere, some locations pose a higher risk:
- Storefront entrances where melting snow collects
- Apartment complexes with poorly maintained walkways or stairs
- Sidewalks and driveways left untreated after a storm
- Parking lots with uneven surfaces and poor lighting
If these areas aren’t properly cleared or salted, the property owner or manager may be at fault.
⚖️ Minnesota Law: When Property Owners Are Responsible
Under Minnesota’s premises liability laws, property owners and occupiers (such as landlords or store managers) have a duty to maintain safe conditions for those legally on their premises.
This means they must:
- Inspect regularly for hazards like ice or snow buildup
- Take reasonable action to remove or treat icy surfaces
- Warn visitors of known dangers
If a fall happens because a property owner knew or should have known about a dangerous condition and didn’t act, they may be legally responsible for your injuries.
📸 What to Do After a Slip-and-Fall Accident
If you’re injured on an icy walkway, these steps can protect your health and your legal claim:
- Seek medical attention immediately
Even if injuries seem minor, some (like concussions or fractures) worsen over time. - Report the incident
Notify the property owner or manager. Ask for a copy of the incident report if applicable. - Document the scene
Take photos or videos of the ice, snow, lighting conditions, and your injuries. Note the weather and time. - Get witness information
Names and contact details can support your case. - Preserve your footwear and clothing
These can serve as evidence if needed. - Contact a personal injury attorney
Early legal advice ensures your rights are protected and evidence is preserved.
🏛️ How Perron Law Office Supports Slip-and-Fall Victims
At Perron Law Office, we understand how overwhelming an injury can be—especially when it happens suddenly and disrupts your life. We’re here to:
- Investigate the scene and preserve evidence
- Determine whether the property owner violated local snow removal rules
- Help you seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
We offer free consultations and only get paid if you win. Let us handle the legal side while you focus on healing.
✅ Stay Safe—and Know Your Rights
Winter in Minnesota is beautiful—but it’s also treacherous when property owners neglect their duties. If you’ve been hurt on an icy sidewalk or slippery steps, you don’t have to deal with the consequences alone.
Contact Perron Law Office today to speak with a Minneapolis personal injury attorney who will fight for your rights—and help you move forward with confidence.
If you’re looking for a Personal Injury Lawyer in Minneapolis, Perron Law Office is the most trusted name in the Twin Cities area. Simply reach out on (651) 317-8133 to schedule your free consultation.
