If you or a loved one has been injured due to a slip and fall on an icy sidewalk, determining responsibility for snow and ice removal is crucial. While rules can vary significantly depending on building type and local ordinances, a seasoned New York City Slip and Fall Lawyer can help you investigate if negligence was a factor in your injuries.
Who is Responsible for Snow and Ice removal in NY?
In New York, property owners are responsible for maintaining sidewalks that border their property after a snowstorm. It’s important to understand that this duty applies to homeowners, landlords, and commercial property owners alike. While some individuals may assume that the municipality is responsible for sidewalk clearance, the obligation ultimately rests with the property owner. For homeowners, this typically involves manually shoveling and salting their own sidewalks. For landlords and commercial enterprises, the duty frequently extends to engaging maintenance personnel or snow removal services to safeguard tenants, patrons, and the general public. Failure to promptly clear sidewalks can result in both hefty fines and significant legal liability should an individual suffer an injury due to a slip.
In addition to assigning responsibility, New York enforces strict deadlines for snow and ice removal after a snowstorm. Property owners have to clear sidewalks within four hours after snow or ice has stopped falling. Nevertheless, there is an exception. If the snow ends between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM, the clock will not start until the morning, providing property owners sufficient time to safely clear walkways.
It should be noted that counties outside of New York City may enforce different snow removal ordinances; therefore, property owners must check their community’s rules. Failing to comply with these deadlines can result in significant penalties, and if someone is injured on your uncleared sidewalks, that missed timeframe can be used as evidence of negligence in a personal injury lawsuit.
What Should I Do If I’m Injured in a Slip-and-Fall on Snow or Ice?
After a slip and fall accident on an icy sidewalk, it’s essential to take the right steps, as this can significantly impact both your recovery and your ability to seek compensation. Even if you feel fine, you should seek immediate medical care. Falls on ice can lead to hidden injuries, such as concussions, fractures, and soft tissue damage, which may not show symptoms right away. Prompt medical attention not only protects your health but also creates a medical record that can help establish a direct link between your injuries and the fall.
If you are physically capable, you should take photos and videos of the icy conditions and anything that may have contributed to the accident, like poor lighting or untreated sidewalks. You should notify the property owner about the fall as soon as possible and fill out an incident report.
One of the most important steps you can take is contacting an experienced lawyer. At The Bàez Legal Group, we are prepared to help you investigate the circumstances of the accident and gather evidence to build a robust case on your behalf. Our legal team can help you fight for the justice you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.
