Snow and ice accidents are a common winter hazard, especially during bustling public events like holiday parades in New York. Thousands suffer serious injuries yearly due to slips and falls on icy sidewalks, stairways, and parking lots. According to the National Safety Council, more than 46,000 people died in falls in 2022, with frosty conditions significantly contributing.
The Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP specializes in helping individuals command justice after personal injury accidents. Our extensive experience representing countless clients across New York positions us as a reliable partner during this challenging time. Suppose you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence. In that case, you can trust our seasoned personal injury lawyers to examine the circumstances of your accident and guide you in holding the liable party accountable.
Understanding Liability in NY Winter Slip-and-Fall Accidents
Liability for winter slip-and-fall accidents depends on various factors, like where the accident happened, who owns the property, and who’s responsible for snow removal. In many cases in New York, property owners are responsible for keeping sidewalks safe by promptly clearing snow and ice. They can be held accountable if someone gets hurt when they neglect this duty.
Property owners typically have a “reasonable” amount of time to clear snow or ice after a storm. If they neglect this duty, they could be held responsible for the resulting injuries if an accident occurs. Understanding who is at fault can be complicated, mainly if the accident occurs in a public space during a crowded event.
Who May Be Responsible for Snow Removal Injuries That Occurred in New York?
Multiple parties may be responsible for a snow removal-related slip-and-fall accident depending on the property type and situation. Common liable parties include:
- Municipal authorities
- Private contractors
- Property owners
Our winter slip-and-fall attorneys can assess your case, identify who is responsible for maintaining the property where the accident occurred, and determine whether negligence was involved.
Proving Negligence in Snow Removal Accident Injury Lawsuits
To recover compensation in a snow and ice accident case, you must prove that the responsible party was negligent. That involves showing that they owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and their negligence directly caused your injuries. In slip-and-fall cases, demonstrating negligence can be challenging because New York’s snow and ice laws include reasonable time allowances for snow removal.
Evidence is critical to proving liability. For example, you may need to provide records of previous snow removal activity, eyewitness testimony, or photos of the conditions at the time of the accident. When you partner with our team at the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP you can trust in our resources and experience to gather and present this evidence effectively.
What Are Potential Damages You May Recover in a Slip-and-Fall Injury Claim in NY?
If you’ve suffered an injury in a winter slip-and-fall accident in New York, you may have the right to seek compensation for several losses. These damages may include:
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
Pursuing a claim can be overwhelming, but our personal injury lawyers are here to handle every detail so you can concentrate on your recovery. Our legal team can help by examining every aspect of your case and working to hold the right parties accountable.
What Are Common Challenges in Snow Injury Claims in NY?
Several factors can make snow and ice claims complex, particularly in New York. Proving negligence can be difficult due to the allowance for a “reasonable” snow-removal period. Additionally, during public events or holidays, the number of parties responsible for a property may increase, creating more potential challenges in establishing liability.
Insurance companies may argue that the property owner took reasonable steps to clear the area or downplay your injuries. But with Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP in your corner, you can depend on our slip-and-fall lawyers to fight tirelessly to protect your interests against these challenges and recover the compensation you deserve.
Consult a Winter Slip-and-Fall Lawyer in New York for Free Today
If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident due to icy or poorly maintained walkways, you don’t have to face the challenges of recovery alone. The Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP has extensive experience handling winter slip-and-fall claims in New York. We’re here to help you through each step toward fair compensation.
With more than 100 years of combined experience, our slip-and-fall attorneys work to secure the best possible outcome for your situation. Call us at (516) 358-6900 or complete our contact form for a free consultation. Visit our YouTube Channel to stay informed about New York’s most up-to-date laws regarding accidents frequently occurring during New York’s winter season.
