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Slip and fall accidents are more common during the winter season than at any other time of year. As temperatures drop and snow accumulates, ice and slippery surfaces become everyday hazards to individuals walking outdoors. Knowing the common causes of slips and falls in this season, understanding property liability, and being aware of potential legal remedies can help individuals prepare for the risks associated with winter weather conditions.
Common Causes of Winter Slips and Falls
There are a number of situations that can lead to a slip or fall accident in the winter months. Some of the many common causes that can contribute to an individual slipping or tripping outdoors during this season include:
- Poorly lit sidewalks
- Sidewalks that are not well maintained
- Puddles from melted snow or ice accumulation on roofs
- Icy patches on stairs or walkways caused by air conditioning units running from inside buildings
Injuries Stemming from Slip and Falls
Slip and fall accidents often result in serious injuries, such as strains and sprains, that can cause a variety of complications. These may include painful throbbing, swelling, and range-of-motion issues, while more severe sprains can tear or rupture delicate muscle or nerve fibers, potentially necessitating surgery or expensive medical treatments.
In addition to traditional strains and sprains often associated with slip-and-fall incidents, the elderly are especially vulnerable to life-altering breaks and fractures from a fall, particularly in their hips, wrists and shoulders.
Public vs. Private Property Liability
Whether you're dealing with public or private property, liability will depend on where your injury occurred. For example, if you slip on ice at a public park owned by the city, then you may be able to file a claim against the local municipality if they failed to properly maintain the premises (clear sidewalks of snow & ice).
On the other hand, if you're injured while walking through a store or complex, then it's likely that the property owner would also be responsible for any medical expenses resulting from your injury due to their failure to keep their premises safe for customers or visitors.
Determining whether or not you were injured on public or private property can be challenging without the help of an experienced premises liability attorney. An attorney can help you review the facts of your case and determine whether or not you have a valid claim against a property owner.
Legal Recourse After an Accident
If you have been injured while on someone else's property due to their negligence in maintaining it, then it is possible for you to seek legal recourse depending on the specifics of your case. If successful, you may be able to recover compensation for any medical expenses as well as additional damages related to lost wages due to missed work days or pain & suffering resulting from your injury. It's important that you contact an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in slip and fall cases so that they can assess your situation and determine what course of action is best for you moving forward.
Premises Liability Attorneys in New York City
If you or a loved one has suffered from an injury caused by someone else's negligence in maintaining public or private property, then it is important to contact an experienced premises liability attorney. At Dansker & Aspromonte Associates LLP, our team of dedicated attorneys has years of experience handling slip and fall cases throughout New York City. We understand the risks associated with winter weather conditions and have the expertise to help you recover the compensation you deserve for your slip and fall accident.
If you’ve experienced a slip and fall accident resulting in injuries, call us today at (646) 692-0204 or fill out our form online for a free consultation.