Don’t Let Driveway Slip and Fall Accidents Ruin Friendsgiving
Thanksgiving season is well and truly upon us. The chill of late fall is settling in after a mild autumn in the DMV. The supermarket meat aisles are stuffed with turkeys. The holiday air and highway traffic is building. Football season is heading towards its dramatic climax. The signs are impossible to miss. One more recent addition to our traditional run-up towards Thanksgiving are so-called “Friendsgiving” parties. These more casual affairs allow friend groups to check in and celebrate as a kind of found family, affirming their bonds and breaking bread before returning to the embrace of family. Friendsgiving is a charming addition to our collective social calendars and will certainly be deeply appreciated by those with estranged, far-flung, or dearly departed families. But crowded houses and driveways can quickly turn hazardous. Today’s Malloy Law blog post will explore and examine driveway slip and fall accidents.
Common Causes of Driveway Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall injuries are often associated with grocery stores, parking lots, or workplaces—but many happen in far more familiar settings. Residential driveways are a surprisingly common site for serious falls, particularly in colder climates and suburban neighborhoods. These accidents can occur for a number of reasons, including:
- Ice, snow, and standing water – In winter months, unshoveled snow or untreated ice can quickly create treacherous walking conditions. Even after a thaw, pooled water may refreeze overnight, creating invisible black ice.
- Cracked or uneven pavement – Driveways that have been neglected over time may develop broken or raised sections of concrete that can easily trip an unsuspecting visitor.
- Loose gravel, leaves, or debris – Sand, gravel, and fallen leaves can all reduce traction, especially on sloped driveways.
- Poor lighting – Dimly lit or unlit driveways make it difficult to spot hazards after dark.
- Oil spills or slick substances – Leaks from parked cars can leave slippery patches that are nearly invisible until it’s too late.
While these conditions may seem minor, property owners have a legal duty to maintain reasonably safe conditions—or warn visitors if a hazard can’t be immediately fixed.
Injuries Commonly Caused by Driveway Falls
A simple fall can result in lasting harm. Victims of driveway slip and fall accidents often suffer injuries such as:
- Fractures of the wrists, hips, or ankles
- Spinal or back injuries from sudden impact
- Concussions or traumatic brain injuries
- Torn ligaments or severe bruising
- Cuts, dental trauma, or facial fractures
These injuries can require extensive medical treatment, time off work, and long-term rehabilitation. Older adults, in particular, are more susceptible to fractures and complications from even minor falls.
Contributory Negligence: A Major Legal Hurdle
For residents of Maryland and Virginia, another important factor comes into play—contributory negligence. Under this rule, if an injured person is found to be even slightly responsible for their own fall (for instance, ignoring an obvious hazard or wearing unsafe footwear), they can be barred from recovering any compensation.
This strict legal standard makes it essential to document the scene carefully and consult an experienced attorney early in the process. A lawyer can help gather evidence, preserve witness statements, and counter attempts by insurers or defense counsel to shift blame onto the victim.
What to Do After a Driveway Fall
If you suffer a fall while visiting someone’s home, taking quick, careful steps can help protect both your health and your potential claim:
- Seek medical attention immediately, even for seemingly minor injuries.
- Report the incident to the homeowner and note their response.
- Take photos or videos of the driveway and surrounding area before any cleanup or repairs occur.
- Collect witness information from anyone who saw the accident.
- Contact a personal injury attorney familiar with premises liability cases to review your options.
A well-documented record of the conditions, injuries, and responses can make all the difference in proving negligence and securing fair compensation.
How Malloy Law Can Help
If you or a loved one has been injured while attending a Friendsgiving party or any other event at a friend’s house, Malloy Law may be able to help. Our experienced and talented personal injury team will evaluate your case free of charge and plot a path to maximum compensation on your behalf. Don’t face the aftermath of a slip and fall accident alone. Contact Malloy Law today and let’s win your case.