Valentine’s Day is a time for celebration, but accidents and legal issues can quickly turn a romantic evening into a stressful ordeal. Whether you’re planning a date night, hosting an event, or traveling, The Law Offices of James A. Welcome wants to ensure that you and your loved ones stay safe and avoid preventable injuries.

From slip-and-fall hazards to Connecticut DUI laws and property owner responsibilities, here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and others this Valentine’s Day.

Winter Weather Safety: Preventing Slip-and-Fall Accidents

With icy sidewalks and snowy conditions still lingering in Connecticut, pedestrian accidents are more likely to occur on poorly maintained walkways, parking lots, and driveways. If you’re heading out for a romantic dinner or a weekend getaway, be cautious of hidden ice patches.

Property Owners: Your Legal Duty to Keep Walkways Safe

Under Connecticut General Statutes § 14-252a, property owners must remove accumulated snow and ice from their vehicles before driving. Additionally, local ordinances require businesses, restaurants, and homeowners to clear their sidewalks and entryways to prevent slip-and-fall accidents. Failure to do so could lead to fines or liability claims if someone is injured.

✔ Wear slip-resistant shoes when walking in parking lots or sidewalks.
✔ Be extra cautious around entryways—melting snow can create slick surfaces inside restaurants and venues.
✔ Property owners should shovel, salt, and sand their walkways before guests arrive.

If you or a loved one slips and falls due to a hazardous condition, you may have a valid premises liability claim. Contact our Connecticut personal injury attorneys to discuss your legal options.

DUI Laws in Connecticut: Avoid Drunk Driving on Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day celebrations often include wine at dinner or cocktails at a bar, but driving under the influence (DUI) in Connecticut carries severe penalties. Law enforcement increases patrols on holidays like Valentine’s Day to catch intoxicated drivers.

Connecticut DUI Penalties Under General Statutes § 14-227a:

— First offense: Up to 6 months in jail, fines between $500 and $1,000, and license suspension for 45 days.
— Second offense: Mandatory jail time, fines up to $4,000, and an ignition interlock device (IID) requirement for 3 years.
— Third offense: Permanent license revocation, a mandatory 1-year jail sentence, and increased fines up to $8,000.

If You Plan on Drinking, Stay Safe by Following These Tips:

— Use a rideshare service or taxi—Apps like Uber and Lyft are safer and more affordable than a DUI conviction.
— Have a designated driver—Plan ahead with someone you trust to stay sober.
— Stay at a hotel or with friends if you’ve had too much to drink.

If you or a loved one is injured by a drunk driver this Valentine’s Day, The Law Offices of James A. Welcome is ready to help you seek compensation.

Dining Out? Watch for Restaurant & Parking Lot Hazards

Many restaurants, hotels, and event venues will be packed on Valentine’s Day, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. Common restaurant-related injury claims include:

✔ Slip-and-fall accidents—Wet or slippery floors can cause serious injuries.
✔ Burn injuries from hot food or drinks—Negligent food service can lead to burn-related claims.
✔ Parking lot accidents—Icy or poorly lit parking areas create dangerous conditions for pedestrians and drivers.

If you suffer an injury due to unsafe conditions at a Connecticut business, you may be entitled to compensation.

Valentine’s Day Travel: Winter Road Safety Tips

Planning a romantic getaway? Be prepared for winter road hazards! February travel in Connecticut can be unpredictable, with icy roads, poor visibility, and increased holiday traffic.

— Check the weather forecast before heading out.
— Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready—Check tire tread, brakes, and fluid levels.
— Drive cautiously and avoid speeding—Icy conditions require extra stopping distance.

Injured This Valentine’s Day? Contact a Connecticut Personal Injury Attorney

If you or a loved one is injured due to a slip-and-fall accident, a drunk driving crash, or an unsafe property condition this Valentine’s Day, you have legal options. At The Law Offices of James A. Welcome, we fight for injury victims across Connecticut to help them recover medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering damages.

Call us today at (203) 753-7300 for a free consultation. Enjoy your Valentine’s Day, but remember—if someone else’s negligence causes you harm, we’re here to fight for you.