Bronx Snow & Ice Accident Lawyers

Trusted Snow & Ice Accident Lawyers In The Bronx

New York City may be known for its wintertime snow and ice, but it doesn’t detract from property owners’ responsibilities to clear away any build-up. Failing to do so can have dire consequences; not only is slipping on the resulting accumulation of snow or ice dangerous but those responsible could also face financial penalties if an accident occurs. It’s thus vital that everybody does their part in decreasing slip and fall risks by removing any accumulated snow or ice from their premises.

Experiencing a traumatic snow or ice accident can be heartbreaking. That’s why Rosenberg & Rodriguez is here for you. Our Bronx snow and ice accident lawyers are available to help guide you through every step of filing your claim and ensure that those who bear responsibility for your injuries face accountability. Reach out to us today to book a free consultation, so we can begin assisting with claiming the damages owed to you without delay!

Property Owners Are Liable For Slippery Or Dangerous Walkways

The New York City code requires that, in accordance with Section 16-123, those accountable for properties must clear away any ice and snow from sidewalks within four hours after a snowfall has ended. When it’s too frosty to remove the frozen material, an anti-skid substance like sand should be used as a cover until weather conditions are appropriate enough for removal.

If snow and ice have been neglected to be cleared away, property owners face the risk of incurring fines. Additionally, if an individual experiences a slip-and-fall incident due to these obstacles on their land, they can be held liable for any damages that may take place. Such consequences are generally defrayed by either homeowners’ insurance or general business liability coverage.

Regrettably, insurance companies too often disregard the gravity of slip and fall accidents. Yet, these incidents can lead to serious harm―broken bones or ligament tears being just a few examples. Surgery might be necessary for recovery from such catastrophes; elderly people may suffer extended health issues due to them and lack an active life for months after that. Luckily, our Bronx snow & ice accident lawyers make sure the insurers take your injuries seriously by taking strong legal action against them if needed.

Causes Of Snow & Ice Accidents In The Bronx

During the winter, New Yorkers face a higher risk of slipping on snow and ice. Although some may view these incidents as innocent “accidents”, many are actually preventable with proper sidewalk maintenance from property owners or their representatives – including clearing away any existing snow or ice in a timely manner. Keep yourself safe this winter season; don’t become another victim of negligent management practices!

In some cases, someone in charge of the premises may be careless and create a risky state that leads to an unfortunate slip and fall accident. For instance, they might leave piles of snow on top of driveways until it melts away onto walkways which will end up re-freezing afterward. Other notable sources leading to slips due to ice or snow include:

• Inadequate shoveling which leaves snow and ice patches
• Failure to adequately salt and sand after shoveling
• Failing to remove snow and ice within a reasonable time after a snowfall
• Icy sidewalks, steps, and handrails
• Failure to remove hanging icicles which later melt, drip down onto walkways, and refreeze when the temperature drops
• Water leaks cause an accumulation of water that later freezes

New York City Snow And Ice Laws

Knowing New York City’s many specific snow and ice codes is essential if you intend to file a lawsuit in this area. It’s imperative that you seek the counsel of an experienced snow and ice accident lawyer in the Bronx who can guide you through these intricate laws. These regulations explain both responsible parties liable in your claim as well as what evidence must be presented for success. If, however, there’s been erroneous identification of defendants or too much time has elapsed before filing, sadly your case may not stand up in court.

Administrative Code Section 16-123

According to Section 16-123, every property owner and occupant must ensure that their adjacent sidewalks are cleared of snow, ice, and dirt hazards within four hours after the end of a snowfall. This timeline allows individuals to attend to the removal process during daylight hours – from 7 a.m. through 9 p.m.- when visibility is improved and safer conditions for pedestrians who use public pathways in urban areas are guaranteed, leaving out any time between nightfall and dawn.

As per Section 16-123, if ice and snow cannot be removed without causing harm to the pavement, then owners may use sand, sawdust, or any other comparable material in order to ameliorate such hazardous conditions. But they must ensure that once the weather is favorable, they thoroughly cleanse their garden path.

Administrative Code Section 7-210

In 2003, the City of New York implemented Section 7-210 – “Liability of real property owner for failure to maintain the sidewalk in a reasonably safe condition”. Commercial business and investment property owners must be held responsible if people become injured due to snow or ice near their premises. Although there are exceptions, make sure you check your local laws before assuming liability.

Homeowners of 1, 2, and 3-family dwellings that are reserved for residential purposes can relax knowing the law grants them an exemption from sidewalk liability in regard to winter snow or ice. The City of New York is still responsible for removing snow and ice off the sidewalks surrounding these smaller owner-occupied homes within a sensible timeframe so as to avoid any potential injuries.