Snowy Sidewalks and Icy Streets: Know Your Rights as a Pedestrian in NYC

Brian Magnosi | Slip & Fall Injuries | December 29, 2023

Winter in New York City brings with it icy sidewalks and slippery streets, creating hazardous conditions for pedestrians. It is essential for residents and visitors alike to understand their rights if they fall victim to a slip and fall accident on these treacherous surfaces. 

Understanding the Risks of Winter Walking in NYC

In Winter New York City sidewalks and streets can quickly become icy deathtraps, causing numerous slip and fall accidents every year. These accidents can lead to serious injuries, severe fractures or head injuries.

Legal Responsibility for Snow and Ice Removal

In New York City, property owners are legally obligated to keep their sidewalks safe. This duty involves timely snow and ice removal, applying salt or sand to minimize slipperiness, and ensuring that walkways are safe for public use. The specific regulations can vary, but generally, property owners have a small window of time after the snowfall ends to clear their sidewalks.

Your Rights as a Victim of a Slip and Fall Accident

If you suffer an injury from a fall due to snowy or icy conditions, you may be entitled to compensation. This compensation can cover medical bills, lost wages due to injury, and pain and suffering. However, receiving compensation is not automatic; it requires establishing that the property owner was negligent in maintaining the sidewalk.

Proving Negligence in Slip and Fall Cases

Proving negligence is a critical aspect of a slip and fall case. To establish negligence, it must be shown that the property owner knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and failed to take appropriate action to rectify it or failed to follow the specific regulations regarding snow removal.  Evidence such as photographs of the scene, witness statements, and incident reports play a crucial role in this process.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health comes first. Even if the injury seems minor, some symptoms may not appear immediately. Medical documentation is also vital for your claim.
2. Document the Scene: If possible, take photographs of the spot where you fell, focusing on the icy or snowy conditions. Note the time and location as accurately as possible. Remember to take photographs of the address where your accident happened.
3. Report the Accident: Inform the property owner or manager about the accident. If it’s a public space, report it to the relevant city authorities.
4. Collect Witness Information: If there were any witnesses to your fall, get their contact details: their name, address, and telephone number. Their accounts can be valuable in supporting your claim.

Seek Legal Assistance

Pursuing a legal claim for a slip and fall accident can be complex. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer who specializes in slip and fall cases is advisable. An experienced attorney can help you in several ways:

1. Assessing Your Claim: A lawyer can evaluate the circumstances of your accident and advise on the viability of your claim.
2. Gathering Evidence: An attorney can assist in gathering the necessary evidence to build a strong case, including securing surveillance footage if available.
3. Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies try to minimize payouts. A skilled lawyer can negotiate with these companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
4. Representing You in Court: If your case goes to trial, having a lawyer with expertise in slip and fall accidents is invaluable. They can present your case effectively and fight for your rights.

Personal Injury Attorney In New York City

Navigating the aftermath of a slip and fall accident in New York City’s winter can be daunting. However, understanding your rights as a pedestrian and the responsibilities of property owners can empower you to take the right steps following an accident.

The expertise of an experienced personal injury lawyer like Michele Mirman from Mirman, Markovits & Landau, PC is invaluable. With her extensive knowledge of New York’s personal injury laws, Michele Mirman can provide crucial insights into the legal nuances of your case. Her experience in handling slip and fall accidents ensures that every aspect of your situation is investigated and addressed. Michele’s adept negotiation skills can be instrumental in helping to secure compensation that truly reflects the gravity of your injuries and losses. Her ability to represent clients effectively in court means that if your case goes to trial, you will have a formidable advocate on your side. 

Remember, if you are injured due to snowy or icy conditions, you may have legal recourse to seek compensation. With the guidance and representation of a lawyer like Michele Mirman, your rights will be vigorously protected, and you stand a better chance of receiving the compensation you rightfully deserve. Stay safe and informed this winter as you walk the snowy sidewalks and icy streets of NYC.