Winter in Denver brings more than just snow—it also brings a rise in slip and fall accidents on icy sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots. Property owners have a legal duty to keep their premises safe for visitors. When they fail to remove snow or ice within a reasonable time, injuries can happen, and they may be held liable.
If you were hurt after a fall on someone else’s property, the personal injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Dianne Sawaya can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Dianne Sawaya
We have helped countless clients recover from slip and fall injuries caused by unsafe winter conditions. Our team knows how to build strong premises liability cases and hold negligent property owners accountable.
What sets us apart:
- Over 25 years of experience in Colorado personal injury law
- A proven record of successful verdicts and settlements
- Direct, compassionate communication with every client
- Thorough investigation of property conditions and weather records
- No fee unless we win your case
We take the time to understand your story and fight for fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and long-term recovery needs.
Understanding Premises Liability in Snow and Ice Accidents
Slip and fall cases on snow or ice fall under premises liability law, which determines who is responsible when dangerous property conditions cause injury. In Colorado, property owners and managers must act with reasonable care to keep walkways safe. This includes clearing snow, applying salt or sand, and addressing known hazards within a reasonable timeframe.
Liability often depends on several factors:
- Whether the property owner knew or should have known about the icy condition
- How long the snow or ice was present
- What actions were taken to reduce the risk
- Whether the injured person was lawfully on the property
If an owner failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harm, they could be held responsible for your injuries.
Commercial vs. Residential Property Duties
Colorado law holds commercial and residential property owners to different standards of care.
Commercial property owners, such as businesses or landlords, typically have higher duties because they invite the public onto their property. They are expected to:
- Regularly inspect walkways and parking areas
- Remove snow and ice promptly after a storm
- Use warning signs if surfaces remain slick
Residential property owners also must maintain sidewalks and driveways, but their obligations are generally limited to the areas they control. Many Denver municipalities require homeowners to clear sidewalks within a certain number of hours after snowfall ends.
Snow Removal Timing and Local Ordinances
In Denver, property owners are typically required to remove snow within 24 hours after a storm stops. Failure to comply can result not only in city fines but also in increased civil liability if someone is injured.
Timing is important in slip and fall cases. A property owner who takes action promptly after a storm is less likely to be found negligent than one who lets ice build up for days. Our team reviews local ordinances, maintenance records, and weather data to determine whether a reasonable snow removal effort was made.
Natural Accumulation Rule and Weather-Related Defenses
Colorado recognizes what’s known as the natural accumulation rule, which can limit a property owner’s liability for snow and ice that accumulates naturally from ongoing weather. However, this rule doesn’t excuse negligence.
Owners may still be responsible if:
- The ice formed due to poor drainage or defective gutters
- The accumulation was made worse by man-made conditions
- They ignored known hazards after the storm had passed
An experienced attorney can evaluate whether the natural accumulation defense applies in your case and challenge it with evidence.
Preventing Snow and Ice Accidents
Property owners can reduce the risk of slip and fall incidents through consistent winter maintenance. Common prevention measures include:
- Shoveling sidewalks and driveways promptly
- Applying salt or de-icer before and after snowfall
- Repairing uneven pavement or poor drainage areas
- Installing proper lighting to increase nighttime visibility
If these measures are ignored and someone gets hurt, the owner may be liable for damages.
Contact Our Experienced Denver Slip and Fall Lawyers Today
If you’ve suffered an injury due to snow or ice in Denver, you don’t have to handle the legal process alone. We will gather the evidence needed to prove negligence, deal with insurers, and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
Contact the Law Offices of Dianne Sawaya, LLC today for a free consultation. Let us help you recover physically and financially after a serious fall.
FAQs About Snow and Ice Slip and Fall Claims in Colorado
Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Colorado follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation as long as you were less than 50% responsible for the accident.
What evidence helps prove liability in snow and ice cases?
Photos, weather reports, witness statements, and property maintenance logs can all support your claim. We help collect and analyze this evidence to strengthen your case.
What if I fell on snow or ice at my apartment complex?
If your fall occurred on shared property such as a parking lot or walkway, the landlord or property management company may be responsible for maintaining those areas. We can review your lease and maintenance policies to determine who is liable for your injuries.