Snow & Ice Slip and Fall

Michigan Snow & Ice Slip and Fall Claims

Michigan winters are brutal, and snow and ice create some of the most dangerous conditions on commercial and residential properties throughout the state. When property owners, landlords, and businesses fail to clear ice and snow from walkways, parking lots, stairs, and entrances, they put every visitor at risk of a serious fall. At Koussan Law, we have a proven track record of holding negligent property owners accountable for winter slip and fall injuries — including one of the largest recorded slip and fall settlements in Michigan history.

Michigan's Open and Obvious Doctrine

One of the biggest challenges in Michigan snow and ice cases is the "open and obvious" doctrine. Under this defense, property owners argue that the ice or snow was visible and that a reasonable person should have avoided it. However, Michigan courts have recognized important exceptions: when a hazard is "effectively unavoidable" — meaning there is no safe alternative path — or when "special aspects" make the condition unreasonably dangerous, such as black ice that is invisible to the naked eye. We know how to overcome the open and obvious defense by establishing these exceptions with evidence.

Property Owner Obligations in Winter

Under Michigan premises liability law, property owners owe invitees (customers, tenants, and business visitors) a duty to maintain their property in a reasonably safe condition. During winter, this includes timely snow removal, salting or sanding icy surfaces, maintaining proper drainage to prevent ice formation, and providing adequate lighting so hazards are visible. When property owners cut corners on winter maintenance — whether to save money or through simple neglect — they become liable for resulting injuries.

Common Snow and Ice Fall Injuries

Falls on ice often produce serious injuries: hip fractures (especially in older adults), wrist and arm fractures from bracing during a fall, traumatic brain injuries from hitting the head on pavement, back and spinal injuries, and knee injuries including torn ligaments. These injuries can require surgery, extensive rehabilitation, and may cause permanent limitations.

If you've been hurt in a snow or ice fall on someone else's property in Michigan, call Koussan Law at (313) 800-0000.