Winter is beautiful in Massachusetts and New England, with falling snow, quiet beaches, snow-covered parks, and endless opportunities for winter sports, such as skating, skiing, and snowshoeing. On the downside, winter weather makes the roads more dangerous. Although often overlooked, parking lots are also more hazardous during the winter months.
What Makes Parking Garages More Dangerous in the Wintertime?
In winter weather, most drivers are more cautious on the roads, but they should also be wary of parking garages. The number of people injured in parking garage accidents increases when the snow falls. Drivers, passengers, and pedestrians can be injured in parking garages in different ways, including:
- Slip or trip and fall accidents from tracked-in snow and ice, pooled water, oil spots or fluid leaks, poor lighting, or cracked pavement
- Falls downstairs caused by snow and ice, debris, broken stairs, or missing or broken handrails
- Skidding accidents that cause vehicles to collide with structures or pedestrians
- Distracted drivers hitting pedestrians
- Children darting into the paths of vehicles during the heavy holiday shopping seasons
- Parking structure collapses
- Vehicle break-ins
- Parking garage muggings
Give us a call today to discover how we can assist you.
How Can Drivers and Pedestrians Stay Safer in Parking Garages in the Winter?
Whether you are driving or walking into a parking garage in the winter, it is important to stay alert. Keep in mind that drivers may not be able to stop quickly on slick surfaces. Drive slowly and watch for pedestrians and icy patches. Park away from drain holes, above and below, to avoid ice that forms from crashing onto your vehicle. Avoid parking garages when snow has built up on the top level – use an open lot instead.
How Is Liability Determined in a Parking Garage Accident
If your injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence, that party may be liable. For example, you may have a claim against the property or business owner if a hazardous condition existing on the property caused your accident. Property owners have a duty to ensure their premises are safe for visitors, including parking garages. In the case of a mugging or assault in a parking garage, you may have a claim against the property owner for negligent security. We can investigate your accident to determine fault and liability and secure evidence to support your case.
We've offered crucial support and guidance to individuals who have suffered injuries, ensuring their financial and emotional well-being.
What Types of Damages Are Available for Parking Garage Injuries?
The types of damages you are entitled to claim for parking garage injuries will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. You may be able to seek compensation for losses you have suffered, which may include medical expenses, lost earnings, loss of future earning potential, pain and suffering, mental anxiety, emotional trauma, loss of consortium, and other losses. Our Massachusetts personal injury attorneys can assess the full extent of your damages and effectively pursue the maximum compensation available.
Get in touch with us today to get a free consultation.
Why Choose Us?
At DiBella Law Offices, P.C., we have recovered millions of dollars in settlements and awards for our clients. Our founding attorney has been recognized by The National Trial Lawyers as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in the state, and as one of their Top 40 Under 40. He has been named among the Premier 100 trial attorneys by the American Academy of Trial Attorneys, and included among Super Lawyers® Rising StarsSM.
For nearly 20 years, our firm has been successfully representing injured people in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. If you have been hurt in a parking garage through the negligence of another, contact us today at (978) 327-5140 to schedule a free consultation. We can discuss your accident and injuries with you and explain your options under the law.
We are committed to providing valuable information and resources to assist you.
