Imagine walking into your local grocery store only to find yourself slipping on a patch of invisible ice and landing in the hospital. Too many Virginians face this scenario in the winter, and it’s essential to understand the responsibility of commercial property owners in preventing such accidents.
Generally speaking, these parties have a duty to make sure their main walkways are safe for customers, or they can be liable for accidents. This includes clearing snow and ice from sidewalks, parking lots and entryways. However, this task becomes more challenging when it comes to black ice.
What is black ice?
Black ice is a sneaky winter hazard. It’s a thin layer of ice that’s almost invisible on dark surfaces like asphalt, making it hard for shoppers and store owners to spot. Poor lighting around parking lots and walkways can make it even harder to see.
Black ice forms when snow melts and refreezes. So, even if a store owner clears snow, moisture can remain on the surface and refreeze, creating black ice.
Black ice is most common in shaded areas and can appear suddenly when temperatures drop. It is especially tricky because it looks just like a wet surface, so you might not realize you’re in danger until it’s too late.
Steps to prevent black ice
There are ways to prevent black ice from forming and keep patrons safe in situations where it could be a hazard. Property owners should clear snow promptly, apply salt or sand to icy areas and ensure good lighting in walkways.
If a store doesn’t take these steps, they might be responsible if someone gets hurt.
Avoid the risks of slipping and falling on ice
To stay safe when visiting department stores, grocery stores, restaurants, offices or other commercial facilities in Virginia, you can reduce your risk of slipping on black ice by:
- Watching for ice patches, especially in areas where snow and ice have been cleared
- Noticing where facilities have salted or treated the ground
- Being cautious of areas with poor lighting
- Taking your time and walking slowly in cold and snowy weather conditions
If you do slip and fall, it’s essential to seek medical help right away. Then, consider talking to a lawyer about your options.
