Ice, Snow, and Sleet: Who Is Responsible for Your Slip and Fall?

by

Jan Dils

Last Updated January 21, 2026 In Premises Liability, Personal Injury

Winter weather makes everyday places more dangerous than most people expect. A sidewalk that felt safe yesterday can turn slick overnight. Parking lots freeze and one wrong step is sometimes all it takes. Situations involving ice, snow, and sleet often raise questions that are not easy to answer in the moment.

If you slip and fall during winter, one of the first questions that comes up is who should have prevented it in the first place. The answer depends on where the fall happened and who was responsible for maintaining that area. Understanding liability in cases involving ice, snow, and sleet often requires looking closely at the details. Our slip and fall attorneys can help you with that.

Falls on Public Property

Public sidewalks, roads, and government-owned parking areas are usually maintained by city or county crews. These agencies are responsible for snow removal and salting, but that does not mean everything gets cleared right away. Crews often focus on main roads and high-traffic areas first.

In some cases, a city or county hires a private company to handle snow and ice removal. If that work is not done properly, responsibility may fall on the contractor instead. These situations are rarely simple and often depend on timing, location, and local rules, especially in cases involving wintery conditions.

Falls on Private Property

Falls on private property are more common. This includes store entrances, apartment complexes, office buildings, and residential driveways. In these cases, responsibility usually falls on the property owner or manager.

Property owners are expected to take reasonable steps to address known hazards. That might mean shoveling snow, applying salt, placing mats, or warning people about slick conditions. Ignoring icy walkways or allowing snow to refreeze without treatment can create real safety risks.

Landlords and property managers are typically responsible for shared spaces, such as parking lots, stairs, and sidewalks within apartment complexes. Homeowners are usually responsible for their own driveways and, in many areas, the sidewalk in front of their home.

When a Slip and Fall Becomes a Legal Issue

Not every winter fall leads to a valid claim. To hold someone responsible, it usually must be shown that they knew or should have known about the hazard and failed to take reasonable action to address it.

Relevant facts include how long the ice was present, whether the area had been treated before, and whether others had complained about the condition. Documentation, photos, and witness statements can all play a role. Here are a few practical winter safety reminders:

• Wear shoes with solid traction
• Slow down on icy surfaces
• Use handrails when available
• Report unsafe conditions when you see them
• Take photos if a fall occurs

Call a Lawyer if Ice or Snow on Someone’s Property Led to an Injury

At Jan Dils, Attorneys at Law, we understand how quickly a winter slip and fall can change your routine. If you were injured and believe the hazard should have been addressed, it may be worth exploring your legal options.

If you have questions after a winter fall, call our Personal Injury lawyers so we may help you understand your next steps.

Winter accidents happen fast. Getting clear answers afterward should not be another obstacle.