What to Do If You Experience a Slip and Fall This Winter in Ontario
Winter in Ontario brings stunning snow-covered landscapes, but it also creates hazardous conditions that can lead to slip-and-fall accidents. Such incidents can result in serious injuries and long-term complications. If you or a loved one experiences a slip-and-fall accident this winter, it’s important to understand your rights and the steps to take after an injury. Being informed can empower you to take the right actions and seek the support you need.
Understanding Your Rights
In Ontario, the Occupiers’ Liability Act places a responsibility on property owners to take reasonable measures to ensure that individuals are kept reasonably safe while on their premises. For instance, if a property owner neglects to clear snow and ice from walkways, resulting in someone slipping and falling, that owner could be deemed liable for negligence. This can lead to an obligation to compensate the injured party for any harm incurred due to the unsafe conditions.
Moreover, recent amendments to the Act introduced a notice provision. According to Section 6.1(1), the injured individual must personally serve or send written notice of the claim via registered mail to the occupier or an independent contractor responsible for removing snow and ice. This notice must include the date, time, and location of the incident. This requirement can be quite burdensome and time-sensitive, emphasizing the critical importance of public awareness regarding the necessary steps to establish liability and ensure that claims are not dismissed due to procedural oversights.
It’s crucial to recognize that every slip and fall case is distinct. However, if you were lawfully present on a property and suffered injuries due to hazardous conditions, the property owner may be held liable. Liability can often be established by proving that the responsible parties failed to reasonably identify and address a dangerous situation. Ultimately, property owners have a duty to maintain the safety of their premises, and neglecting this duty can lead to serious legal repercussions.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall:
1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health should be your top priority. If you are injured, get medical help right away, even if your injuries seem minor at first.
2. Document the Scene: Take photos of the place where you fell, especially the hazard that caused your fall. Note the weather conditions and any relevant details.
3. Gather Witness Information: If there were any witnesses to your fall, get their names and contact information. Their statements can be helpful when establishing liability.
4. Report the Incident: Inform the property owner or manager about the accident as soon as you can. Request a copy of the accident report for your records.
5. Consult a Legal Expert: Slip and fall cases can be complex. Contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to understand your rights and how to proceed with filing your claim within legal deadlines.
At Singer Katz, we recognize the serious impact of slip and fall injuries. We offer a free initial consultation—by phone, email, virtually, or in person—and can meet you at your location if needed. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you only pay if we win your case. Your well-being is our priority, and we’re dedicated to holding negligent property owners accountable. Contact us today to discuss your experience and get the compensation you deserve.
