Spring is here and as you know by all the flooding, the seasonal melt is messy, and in some instances, dangerous. Every year, many people are struck by falling ice and as a result, are seriously injured. As a business owner, it’s important that you take measures to avoid ice buildup on your roof. It’s also important that pedestrians try to be aware of any present hazards. If you were injured by falling ice this spring, then you need to know the proper steps to making a personal injury claim.
Ice Dams & Icicles
There are many factors that come into play to form an ice dam. There must be snow on the roof and the roof must be warm enough to partially melt that snow. As the water flows down the roof it hits a colder part and freezes, creating an ice dam. The ice dam stops water from properly draining off the roof, which in turn builds up more ice as the water freezes. The dangerous thing about ice dams is that when it warms up enough to start melting, it can break loose and fall to the ground without warning.
When snow melts on the roof and the trickling water freezes, it forms icicles that hang off the edge of the roof. For the most part small icicles are nothing to be alarmed about and are easy to clear away. When those magical looking little icicles are left alone long enough they grow and become dangerous.
Preventing Injuries
As a building owner you are responsible for your property. The roof and surrounding area must be kept clear of snow and ice buildup, so it’s important that you are prepared for the spring melt. The easiest way to avoid ice dams and icicles forming is to clear the snow off the roof as soon as possible. If this isn’t something you’re capable of handling yourself, then you need to contact professionals that are able to remove it. Not only can failing to keep your building and the surrounding area clear of snow cause damage to the building itself, it can also put pedestrians at risk. If someone is injured because of your negligence, they have the option of making a personal injury claim.
As a pedestrian you need to remain aware of your surroundings at all times. Not only do you have to keep an eye out for ice and puddles on the ground, you also have to look up to avoid hazards. Stay away from overhanging snow and icicles on roofs. If you do see a potential hazard, notify someone from the building as soon as you can. If you are injured by falling ice or snow because of someone else’s negligence, you need to make a personal injury claim with a personal injury lawyer.
The spring thaw is a welcome sight to many; however, it’s important that building owners do everything in their power to maintain a safe environment. If you or a loved one has been injured by falling ice and believe it is because of someone’s negligence, contact a local personal injury lawyer today to learn your rights. They will break down what you need to know about making a personal injury claim and will answer any questions you have.