Those who own or manage properties in West Virginia have certain responsibilities to maintain that property in such a way that conditions do not cause harm.

This includes removing snow and ice from properties during the winter. Unfortunately, a woman has recently claimed she suffered a personal injury in a slip-and-fall accident resulting in a lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The incident happened in 2016 at an out-of-state ranger station. According to the woman’s lawsuit, a snow sculpture had been placed at the station. When she visited it, however, she claims she slipped on ice, which injured her. The ice was so severe, she claims that paramedics had to put down salt and cat litter in order to safely transport her to the ambulance.

Because she claims that the USDA — which runs the station — should have known that the snow sculptures  would cause visitors to come to the property, it had a duty to ensure their safety. In addition to failing to take steps to remove the ice, she claims that no attempt was made to warn visitors about the icy conditions, including failing to provide signs.

Because of the fall, she claims she experienced medical bills, lost wages and emotional distress. It is easy for some people to dismiss the potential harm that a slip-and-fall accident can cause. However, the fact is that many people in West Virginia have suffered a serious personal injury in such an accident.

The medical bills can quickly pile up, and if the person must also miss work while they recover, his or her financial situation could become precarious. Often, the only way to hold a property owner responsible is through litigation.

Source: ktvb.com