Pennsylvania residents understand the dangers posed by various weather patterns. From icy sidewalks in the winter months to slick pavement after a heavy spring rain, it is not uncommon for individuals to suffer serious injuries after a slip-and-fall accident while outside.
It is not uncommon for parking lots and parking garages to become dangerous environments for pedestrians. Getting out of a warm, dry, climate-controlled vehicle and into an area that is subjected to wind, rain and snow might present pedestrian hazards. While a parking structure has a roof, it still has sides that are open to the elements. Additionally, the parking structure might rely on sloped floors and concrete stairs that could quickly become slippery with age or pooled water.
Accidents in parking lots and parking structures can result from numerous factors, including:
- Oil spots in parking spaces
- Fluid leaks from vehicles
- Pooled water
- Cracked pavement
- Broken or out of place concrete turtles
- Poor lighting
- Broken stairs
- Broken or missing handrails
Slips, trips and falls can lead to serious injuries, including:
- Broken bones
- Sprained wrists
- Dislocated shoulders
- Head trauma
- Spinal cord damage
- Pulled muscles
- Multiple lacerations
Supervisors and property owners have a duty to ensure these areas are safe to visitors. When an accident is caused by a negligent or inattentive property manager, you might be entitled to recover monetary compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. Serious injuries can make it difficult to maintain gainful employment while also facing mounting medical debt. Medical bills could include the initial treatment as well as the resulting prescriptions or physical therapy.