With no end to the cold snap in sight, more snow in the forecast, and ongoing issues with the clearing of ice and snow from city streets the risks of injury from a slip and fall on Vancouver streets is not something to take lightly. Slip and falls frequently account for broken bones and concussions. Pedestrians do have an obligation to take reasonable care while out walking in poor weather conditions which includes wearing proper footwear and exercising reasonable caution to avoid hazards. But, British Columbia law (the Occupier’s Liability Act) also requires owners and occupiers to keep their property reasonably safe and free from hazards that may cause injury or face the possibility of a lawsuit and a claim for damages.
Municipalities share this obligation but there may be additional circumstances, like the passing of a reasonable policy on snow removal, that may affect whether a municipality is liable for injuries sustained because of a slip and fall on icy city streets.
Scott Stanley made these points in a recent interview with CBC’s Lisa Johnson.
Read the article HERE: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/ice-frustration-metro-vancouver-1.3921118
What to do after a fall
So, how do you tell whether you might have a claim? It can get complicated so you may want to take advantage of our free consultation to confirm your rights and the steps you need to take to enforce them.
Evidence of your injuries and the circumstances is going to be important. If you have been injured in a slip and fall here are some things you should do:
- Get photos of the location, preferably showing the same conditions that existed at the time of your fall.
- Identify and get contact details of any witnesses to your fall.
- Report the accident to the occupier or owner of the property. If you have trouble identifying the correct party to inform, this is where a lawyer can help.
- Record the details of what happened at the time of your fall, including the date and time of day, weather, a description of the site, why you were in that location, your route, and what footwear you were wearing when the fall occurred.
As in the case of any accident, always seek medical treatment for your injuries as soon as possible and follow the advice and treatment plan of your medical service provider.
If you have been injured in a slip and fall in Vancouver, or elsewhere in British Columbia, and you have questions, give us a call. We will be happy to listen to your story and tell you whether you have a claim.