Snow and ice often accumulate on sidewalks and parking lots during winters in Connecticut. Snowy conditions represent just one source of slip-and-fall accidents. Falls caused by problems like a wet floor at a supermarket or poorly lit walkway outside of a business could impose liability on a property owner or possessor that left hazards unaddressed.

Extenuating circumstances must exist before liability arises from falls resulting from ice and snow. For example, a clogged roof drain that creates a buildup of ice that then melts, drips and freezes again on a sidewalk could qualify as a hazard that the property owner should have corrected. A parking lot with an irregular surface that allows water to freeze into puddles presents another example of neglect that leaves slippery places for people to fall. Regardless of weather, a crumbling parking lot with holes or big cracks that causes someone to fall could create an opportunity for a victim to sue for damages.

Insufficient outdoor lighting might also leave people vulnerable to tripping on unseen curbs or steps. The law might view the person in charge of the property as responsible if that party was aware of the bad lighting and did nothing.

After seeking medical attention, a person who fell somewhere due to poor maintenance or lighting might realize that the expenses warrant a personal injury lawsuit. A conversation with an attorney might inform a person about the steps necessary to initiate an insurance claim and file a lawsuit. An attorney may be able to determine who bears responsibility for the site of the slip and fall and identify any insurance policies applicable to the property. Direct discussions with the property owner's insurer might produce a settlement, but an attorney may also advance a contentious case to the courtroom to pursue compensation for the person's injuries.