Injured In Slip And Fall On Ice And Snow In Detroit: Can I Sue?

Fatal slip and falls have been increasing every year for the last 11 years. In Michigan in 2021, there were more than 1,500 fall-related deaths. Slip and falls are also the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and other serious injuries. If you or a loved one was hurt or killed in a slip and fall on ice, you should consult with an experienced slip and fall lawyer right away.

The first thing you should do after a slip and fall is seek medical attention. After that, you should document the scene, if you are able, meaning take photos and videos and get witness contact information. You should also file an incident report. Then you should consult with an experienced attorney who will protect your rights and get you the full and fair compensation you deserve.   

The value of your case depends on several important factors, including: (1) your injuries; (2) your medical bills (including future expenses);  (3) your lost wages (include future lost earnings due to your injuries); and (4) the reputation and track record of the attorney who represents you.

The experienced attorneys at Michigan Slip and Fall Lawyers have the reputation and “know how” to maximize your settlement. Call now for a free, no-obligation consultation at 1-855-969-5272. 

What type of injuries are common in a slip and fall on ice?

Slip and falls are a leading cause of death and injury, and the number one cause of TBIs. Other common injuries include:

• Skull fractures
• Brain bleeds
• Spinal cord injuries
• Fractured vertebrae
• Broken bones (most often hips, ankles, and wrists)
• Dislocated shoulders
• Injuries to the eyes, nose, teeth and jaw
• Sprains, strains, and tears (including torn MCLs or ACLs)
• Nerve damage
• Mental trauma
• Depression
• Chronic pain

What should I do if I’ve been injured in a slip and fall on ice?

There are several things you should do right away if you’ve been hurt in a slip and fall, including:

• Seek medical attention – Getting the help you need right away is always an important first step. It’s also important to see your physician and any specialists in the days and weeks following your fall.
• Document the scene, if possible – This means take photos and/or videos that will show where you fell and help explain why the hazard wasn’t seen. You should also get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
• File an incident report – This will prevent the property owner from later denying that the incident occurred. Also get a copy or photo of the report before you leave the scene.
• Consult with a lawyer – Do this before you talk to an insurance adjuster. An experienced slip and fall lawyer will help you protect your rights

What is the law for slip and fall cases in Michigan?

Thanks to recent changes in the law, it is now easier to hold at-fault parties responsible for your injuries in a Michigan slip and fall lawsuit.

A property owner or manager must use reasonable care to protect against hazards arising from the presence of ice and snow on the property. This means the owner or manager must take “reasonable measures within a reasonable time” after the ice and snow has accumulated to ensure you will not be injured in an accident. When that duty is breached, you have a case.

How much is my slip and fall case worth?

There are a variety of factors that will ultimately determine the value of your slip and fall case, including:

• Your injuries – Generally speaking, the more serious the injuries the bigger the settlement. Additional factors include the amount of your medical bills and lost wages, and the pain and suffering you’ve endured.
• Your comparative fault – If you contributed in any way to your injuries, you can still file a lawsuit, but your settlement could be reduced by the amount (percentage) you were responsible.
• The attorney you choose – The experience and reputation of your attorney can make all the difference in the amount of your settlement. An experienced slip and fall attorney will protect your rights, calculate your damages, and maximize your settlement.