Philadelphia’s frequent rainstorms and wet weather conditions often lead to more than just soggy shoes—they can create dangerous slip and fall hazards in entryways, sidewalks, and parking lots throughout the city. When businesses or property owners fail to address these hazards promptly, serious injuries can occur. Understanding how rain contributes to slip and fall accidents and what legal options are available is essential if you’ve been hurt.
How Does Rainy Weather Lead to Slip and Fall Accidents?
Rain increases the likelihood of slipping in areas where water collects or is tracked indoors. Common dangers during rainy conditions include:
- Wet floors at store entrances due to tracked-in rainwater.
- Slick outdoor surfaces such as concrete steps, ramps, and walkways.
- Absence of warning signs or floor mats in high-traffic areas.
- Clogged gutters or poor drainage that causes puddles to form on walkways.
In Philadelphia, where foot traffic is heavy and the weather can be unpredictable, these hazards are especially concerning. Property owners must take reasonable steps to prevent these dangers during and after rainstorms.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Rain-Related Falls?
Property owners and businesses have a duty to keep their premises reasonably safe, even during inclement weather. Effective precautions include:
- Placing non-slip mats at all entryways.
- Using “Wet Floor” signs when conditions are hazardous.
- Regularly mopping and drying high-traffic areas.
- Ensuring drainage systems are functioning properly to prevent standing water.
- Installing adequate lighting to improve visibility in dim or wet areas.
Failing to implement these safety measures could expose visitors to serious harm and expose the property owner to legal liability.
Who Is Liable for a Slip and Fall During Rainy Weather?
In Pennsylvania, property owners, landlords, and business operators are legally responsible for maintaining safe premises. That responsibility doesn’t stop when it rains.
To determine liability after a fall, courts consider whether the property owner acted reasonably under the circumstances. For example:
- Was the wet condition present long enough that staff should have noticed and addressed it?
- Were warning signs or barriers used to alert visitors?
- Was there a system in place for monitoring and cleaning common areas during bad weather?
If the property owner fails to respond appropriately, they may be held liable for the resulting injuries.
How Does Rainy Weather Impact an Injury Claim?
Insurance companies often try to use weather conditions as an excuse to avoid paying fair compensation. They may claim the accident was unavoidable due to “acts of nature.” However, this argument doesn’t eliminate a property owner’s duty to maintain safe conditions, even when it’s raining.
After a rain-related fall, it’s important to:
- Photograph the area where you fell.
- Seek medical care immediately and document all injuries.
- Gather witness contact information if anyone saw your fall.
- Contact a Philadelphia slip and fall lawyer to help protect your rights.
A skilled attorney can investigate whether the owner was negligent and challenge any unfair attempts by insurers to deny your claim.
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Slip and Fall?
If you were injured in a rain-related fall, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses and hospital bills.
- Lost wages during your recovery.
- Pain and suffering.
- Permanent disability or disfigurement.
- Loss of future earning capacity.
The specific value of your claim will depend on how severe your injuries are and how clearly the property owner’s negligence can be established.
Hurt in Rainy Weather? Contact Our Philadelphia Slip and Fall Accident Lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC
Slippery surfaces caused by rainy weather are no excuse for property owners to ignore their duty to keep visitors safe. If you’ve suffered an injury due to wet and hazardous conditions, our experienced Philadelphia slip and fall accident lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC can help. Call 215-569-8488 or contact us online today for a free consultation. Let’s hold negligent property owners accountable—rain or shine. Located in Philadelphia and Abington, Pennsylvania, and Wilmington, Delaware, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.