Guide To Slip And Fall On Ice In New Jersey

Inclement weather is common in the winter in New Jersey. We put together this guide to slip and fall on ice in New Jersey to help people understand their options. If you fall on ice in New Jersey, talk to a local injury lawyer for free advice.

Slip And Fall Injuries

Here are some injuries that can occur from a slip and fall on snow or ice:

• sprains and soft tissue injuries
• broken bones
• neck and back injury
• skin lacerations
• concussion
• paralysis
• death

There are many ways to become injured if you slip and fall on ice. Here’s what you need to know:

Who Is Responsible?

You may believe it is your own fault if you slip and fall on ice. However, this may not be the case. First, you must consider whose property you fell on. Was it someone else’s? Was it the responsibility of another to keep the grounds safe?

Categories For Premises Liability Plaintiffs

New Jersey has 3 categories for plaintiffs in premises liability cases. These categories are business invitee, licensee, and trespasser. Below is some basic information about each category.

Business Invitee

The majority of fall injury claims are “invitees”. This category covers legal visitors to a business property. Invitees include any business visitors, even if they don’t buy anything. Business invitees deserve the highest standard of care according to the law. This is because visitors are on the property for the financial gain of the business. The property should be as safe as possible.

Licensee

A licensee has a legal reason to be on the property. This category includes social guests. A property owner must warn licensees of known dangerous conditions on the property.

Trespasser

The injured party was not invited on the property. The property or landowner typically does not owe the same level of responsibility. Under New Jersey law, a property owner must not intentionally harm the trespasser. There are some exceptions.

Financial Responsibility

The property owner may be responsible if their negligence contributed to, or caused the fall. If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall on ice in New Jersey, talk to a local injury lawyer. A premises liability lawyer in New Jersey can help you understand how the law applies in your case.

Premise Liability

Premise liability is “a lawsuit holds a property owner responsible for any damages arising out of an injury on that person or entity’s property… owners that occupy a property must make a reasonable effort to maintain a safe environment for visitors to it. Failure to keep the property safe for visitors results in premises liability.

Tenant Safety

If a landlord does not properly maintain the grounds, thus leaving snow and ice present on sidewalks and walking areas, the landlord has violated the rights of the tenants’ safety. If the injured party slips and falls due to the landlord’s negligence, they may be held liable in court.

Legal Responsibility For Injuries

Property owners have a legal responsibility to ensure safe conditions for people visiting their properties. This includes ice and snow, and can even include storms in progress.
In 2020, New Jersey courts rejected the so-called “ongoing storm rule” defense. Courts ruled, even in an ongoing storm a property owner should make a reasonable attempt to clear ice and snow. Failure to do so could be negligence in the eyes of the law. When negligence occurs, injuries can happen.

When To Hire A New Jersey Slip And Fall Attorney

If you or a loved one was injured on another’s property, you may have a legal case. There may be money available for you if another party is found negligent. But, there is a time limit to bring a claim. The time limit varies in New Jersey depending on what type of party is responsible. It is very important to talk to an injury lawyer as soon as possible.

New Jersey Slip And Fall Lawyers

If you slip and fall on ice in New Jersey, you may have a claim for compensation. The attorneys of Kane & Silverman can explain your options in a free legal consultation. Call us today at 215-232-1000 to talk to one of our attorneys today.
The scope of your claim will be determined by one of our proven personal injury attorneys. Don’t let a slip and fall ruin your life; get the compensation you deserve!