Slip and Fall Accidents on Wet Leaves

Autumn is in full swing and with it comes colder temperatures and falling leaves. Falling leaves and wet autumn rain together can create an unexpected slippery condition on sidewalks and walkways. A persistent question for homeowners is who becomes liable if a visitor to the property falls on wet leaves?

The answer to that question depends on the homeowner’s duty of care. The homeowner has a duty of care to remove a hazardous situation of which they are aware. For example, if a storm just passed recently where many leaves just fell and then those leaves are the cause of a slip and fall accident, the homeowner may not have had the chance to pick up the leaves and liability may be diminished. This would be especially true if the homeowner was not at home to clean up the potentially hazardous situation.

Who is Entering the Property?

Additionally, the status of the person entering the property is a factor in how much liability the homeowner bears. If the homeowner has invited the person on the property, then she will owe a greater duty of care than someone who is not expected on the property. Licensees are people who you may expect on your property but whom you have not explicitly invited, like mailmen. A trespasser enters your property without your permission and homeowners have no duty of care to those people.

What to Do If You Slip on Wet Leaves?

Wet leaves can be just as slippery as ice, so the potential for hazards can be serious. If you are on someone else’s property and you slip and fall on wet leaves, you should take pictures of the hazard and take notice if the leaves have been there for quite some time. Additionally, it is important to know whose property you were on. Even if you were on a city-owned sidewalk, the homeowner who lives immediately in front of the sidewalk may be responsible to keep the sidewalk clean and free of hazardous conditions.

Retrieve the names and phone numbers of any witnesses to the accident. If the homeowner is at home, retrieve the name and phone number of them as well.  Seek medical attention immediately for any injuries. The treatment should be documented and it is recommended that you keep all medical records issued from the accident. If you decide to file a legal claim, all this information will help ensure that you receive adequate compensation.

Philadelphia Slip and Fall Lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates Assist Victims Injured in Slip and Fall Accidents Due to Wet Leaves

If you fell on the walkway or sidewalk in front of a someone else’s property, you may have the ability to bring legal claims against the property owner. Philadelphia slip and fall lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates can evaluate the situation and provide you with appropriate legal guidance. Located in Philadelphia, we serve the surrounding areas, including Montgomery County, Delaware County, Bucks County, and Chester County. Please contact us online or call us at 215-569-9100 for a free consultation today.