Can I Sue if I Slip and Fall on Ice or Snow in New York?

New York is no stranger to cold,
winter weather. Snow and ice can create a significant hazard and lead to a slip
and fall injury. While it is possible to recover compensation from the property
owner, these accidents can be challenging to prove.

First, no one – including the person
or company that owns the property where you fell – can control the weather. Likewise, walking
outside during a snowstorm represents a degree of risk. However, that does not
mean that a property owner is relieved of responsibility. If they fail to
mitigate accumulated snow or ice in a reasonable amount of time, they could
face liability for a fall.

If you have suffered injuries, it is vital that you seek legal guidance for your claim. Call right away to discuss your options with the New York City slip and fall lawyers from Douglas & London.

Call our experienced slip and fall attorneys for a free consultation!

The
duty to clear snow and ice in New York

State law mandates that the owner
maintain their premises in a reasonably safe manner. This includes addressing
the risk of slipping and falling on accumulated snow and ice. The key phrase in
this discussion is “reasonably.”

There are times when it is not
possible to address the risk of a fall. For example, no amount of effort could
keep a sidewalk or driveway clear while a snowstorm rages. When considering
these claims, the courts will determine if the defendant had a reasonable
amount of time to address this. Your attorney could advise you on what this
might constitute.

Gathering
evidence after falling on snow or ice

In many instances, the evidence gathered can make or break a claim. These cases are complicated by the fact that the evidence, snow and ice, can melt in a matter of hours. Thankfully, your attorney can assist you in this process. If possible, you should take photographs of the area where the fall occurred. If this is not possible, have a friend or relative do it for you.

Tracking down witnesses could also
strengthen your claim. If someone can testify as to how the fall occurred, it
might improve your chances of monetary compensation. While investigating the
scene of the fall is essential, it should always come secondary to your health.
Never pursue an investigation into a slip and fall claim until after your
condition has been assessed and stabilized.

Injured in a slip and fall accident? Tap to call for a FREE consultation!

How Douglas & London could help

At Douglas & London, we have pursued compensation for victims of slip and fall injuries for decades. In that time, we have learned what works and what does not with this type of claim. Schedule a free consultation right away to put our experience to work for you.