Winter in New York brings picturesque snowfall but also introduces significant hazards. Snow and ice can create treacherous walking conditions, leading to slip-and-fall accidents. These incidents often result in severe injuries, including fractures, head trauma, and back injuries. At O’Connor & Partners PLLC, we specialize in helping victims of winter slip-and-fall accidents secure compensation for their injuries and losses.

Common Causes of Winter Slip-and-Fall Accidents

Slip-and-fall accidents during winter typically occur due to:

  1. Uncleared Sidewalks and Walkways
    1. Property owners have a legal obligation to remove snow and ice within a reasonable timeframe. Failure to do so can create dangerous conditions.
  2. Poorly Maintained Parking Lots
    1. Ice patches, slush, and untreated surfaces in parking lots are common causes of winter falls.
  3. Icy Stairs
    1. Stairs without proper traction or handrails become especially hazardous when icy.
  4. Black Ice
    1. This nearly invisible layer of ice forms on roads and walkways, catching pedestrians off guard.
  5. Inadequate Lighting
    1. Poor visibility can make it difficult to spot icy patches.

Legal Responsibility for Winter Slip-and-Fall Accidents

In New York, property owners and managers are required to maintain safe premises, including clearing snow and ice. This duty typically involves:

  • Removing snow and ice within a reasonable timeframe after a storm.
  • Treating walkways with salt or sand to prevent icy conditions.
  • Repairing structural issues, such as uneven pavement, that exacerbate winter hazards.

If a property owner fails to fulfill these duties and someone is injured as a result, they can be held liable under premises liability law.

Steps to Take After a Slip-and-Fall Accident

If you’ve been injured in a winter slip-and-fall accident, follow these steps to protect your rights:

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
    1. Documenting your injuries is crucial for your case. Prompt medical care also ensures your health is prioritized.
  2. Report the Accident
    1. Notify the property owner or manager about the incident. Request a written accident report.
  3. Document the Scene
    1. Take photos or videos of the area where you fell, focusing on snow, ice, or other hazardous conditions.
  4. Gather Witness Information
    1. Collect names and contact details of anyone who witnessed the accident.
  5. Preserve Evidence
    1. Keep the clothing and shoes worn during the fall, as they may serve as evidence.
  6. Contact an Attorney
    1. Consult with a skilled slip-and-fall lawyer to understand your legal options and begin building your case.

How O’Connor & Partners PLLC Can Help

At O’Connor & Partners PLLC, we have extensive experience handling winter slip-and-fall cases. Here’s how we can assist you:

  1. Investigating Your Case
    1. We gather evidence, review weather reports, and analyze maintenance records to establish liability.
  2. Proving Negligence
    1. Our team demonstrates how the property owner’s failure to maintain safe conditions directly caused your injuries.
  3. Calculating Damages
    1. We ensure all your losses are accounted for, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs.
  4. Negotiating with Insurance Companies
    1. Insurance companies often attempt to downplay claims. We use our negotiation expertise to fight for a fair settlement.
  5. Litigating When Necessary
    1. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court.

Why Choose O’Connor & Partners PLLC?

  • Local Expertise: With offices in Kingston, Newburgh, Poughkeepsie, and Saugerties, we are well-versed in New York’s premises liability laws.
  • Proven Results: Our firm has successfully recovered significant settlements and verdicts for clients injured in slip-and-fall accidents.
  • Personalized Attention: We treat each case with the care and dedication it deserves, ensuring our clients feel supported throughout the process.

Compensation Available for Winter Slip-and-Fall Victims

Victims of winter slip-and-fall accidents may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical Expenses: Current and future costs related to your injuries.
  • Lost Wages: Income lost due to your inability to work.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress.
  • Loss of Earning Capacity: Damages for diminished ability to earn in the future.

Contact O’Connor & Partners PLLC Today

If you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident caused by snow or ice, don’t wait to seek legal help. O’Connor & Partners PLLC is dedicated to fighting for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a free consultation:

  • Kingston: (845) 303-8777
  • Newburgh: (845) 375-8787
  • Poughkeepsie: (845) 404-1881
  • Saugerties: (845) 303-8777

Winter weather is unpredictable, but your legal representation doesn’t have to be. Let O’Connor & Partners PLLC guide you through the process and advocate for the justice you deserve.

by O'Connor & Partners, PLLC
Published on

Posted in: Slip & Fall Accidents