What to Do if You’re Injured on a Sidewalk Due to Winter Weather Conditions in New York
Winter in New York can bring unpredictable and hazardous weather conditions, including snow, ice, and freezing rain. These conditions can lead to dangerous situations for pedestrians, particularly on sidewalks that may not be properly maintained. If you or someone you know has been injured due to hazardous winter weather conditions on a sidewalk, a sidewalk trip and fall attorney at Leandros A. Vrionedes, P.C., can help you get the compensation you need and deserve.
Here’s a guide on what to do if you’re injured on a sidewalk due to winter weather conditions in New York.
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health and well-being should always come first. If you’ve been injured in a fall due to icy or snowy conditions on a sidewalk, seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Sometimes, injuries like fractures, concussions, or sprains may not show their full effects until later. A medical professional can assess the extent of your injuries, provide treatment, and document your condition, which can be crucial if you decide to pursue a legal claim later.
2. Report the Incident to the Proper Authorities
In New York City, sidewalk maintenance is generally the responsibility of property owners, whether it’s a business, residential building, or city-owned property. After an injury, it’s essential to report the incident to the appropriate authorities. If you were on a city sidewalk, report the accident to the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT), as they may investigate the conditions of the sidewalk.
If you were on private property, be sure to inform the appropriate authority. In New York City, the municipality is responsible for sidewalks abutting one, two, or three-family homes so long as they are at least partly owner-occupied and used exclusively for residential purposes. For other private property, notifying the property owner or manager is the proper legal route. Either way, always keep a record of your communication, as it may be necessary for any legal claims you pursue.
3. Document the Scene
Gathering evidence from the scene of your accident can help establish responsibility for the injury. Take photographs of the area where you fell, especially if the sidewalk was covered in snow, ice, or another hazardous condition. Document the weather conditions at the time of the accident, and look for anything that may have contributed to the slip and fall, such as:
- Snow or ice accumulation
- Lack of salting or sanding
- Cracked or uneven sidewalk surfaces
- Poor visibility due to snow or ice buildup
It’s also important to note the date and time of the incident, and if there were any witnesses, get their contact information. Witnesses can provide important testimony about the conditions and how the accident occurred.
4. Preserve Evidence of Your Injuries
In addition to documenting the scene of the accident, keep a record of all medical treatments you receive, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, physical therapy, and any other relevant care. This documentation will help establish the extent of your injuries and the costs associated with your recovery. It’s important to keep receipts for any expenses you incur as a result of the accident, including medical bills, transportation costs, and lost wages if you’re unable to work.
5. Consult an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
If you’ve been injured due to winter weather conditions on a sidewalk, it’s essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney, particularly one who is familiar with New York’s laws regarding premises liability and sidewalk maintenance. An attorney can help you understand your rights, investigate the cause of your injury, and help you pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
In New York, property owners have a responsibility to maintain their sidewalks in a reasonably safe condition, especially when it comes to addressing winter hazards. If a property owner failed to remove snow or ice or didn’t take reasonable steps to prevent hazardous conditions, they may be held liable for your injuries.
6. Know the Statute of Limitations
In New York, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, there are exceptions, especially when a government entity is involved. The sooner you contact an attorney, the sooner they can investigate your claim and begin the process of gathering evidence before important details are lost or erased.
7. Be Prepared for Potential Defenses
In some cases, property owners may try to avoid responsibility by arguing that they were not aware of the hazardous conditions or that they took reasonable steps to address the situation. Your attorney will be able to help counter these defenses by providing evidence of negligence, such as a failure to properly maintain the sidewalk, or a lack of salting or sanding after a snowfall.
Contact Leandros A. Vrionedes, P.C., for Help After a Sidewalk Trip and Fall or Slip and Fall in New York City
If you’ve been injured due to hazardous winter weather conditions on a sidewalk in New York, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. Taking the proper steps immediately after the accident, such as seeking medical attention, documenting the scene, and consulting with a personal injury attorney, will help ensure that your legal rights are protected.
At Leandros A. Vrionedes, P.C., we understand the challenges of dealing with a personal injury in the wake of an accident caused by winter conditions. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get the justice and compensation you need.
