How to Avoid Snow-Related Falls in NY

Ice-skating at Rockefeller Center. Snowflakes melting on the tip of your nose and reflecting in the street lights. Trees silhouetted in white. Yes, winter has arrived in New York.

However, as all New Yorkers know, along with the beauty of winter weather comes the increased risk of slip and fall accidents. Below, we’re going to go over some tips for how you can walk more safely in slick and snowy conditions and what you should do to get help if you fall due to someone else’s negligence.

Tips for Staying on Your Feet

Wear nonslip shoes. When it’s slick outside, make sure to wear shoes with good traction. If you aren’t willing to give up your favorite shoes, purchase cleat-like coverings to wear over them.

Walk with smaller, more careful steps. No need to hurry, as that will increase your chances of falling. If you take slow, flat-footed steps with the rest of your body centered over your feet, you’ll be steadier.

Walk where it’s safest. Stay on cleared paths. When that’s not possible, grass provides better traction than a slick sidewalk.

Exit vehicles with care. Don’t jump from a vehicle. Pay attention when you exit, turning to use both feet at once for maximum stability. Lean on the body of your vehicle for support when exiting, if needed.

Stay alert. Don’t text and walk. Keep your eyes on the path in front of you, and watch for slick areas, especially at entrances and exits.

Use handrails. They can make all the difference between staying upright and falling.

Test slick areas first. If you’re not sure whether an area is icy, tap your foot gently on the surface before proceeding.

Proceed with extreme caution on ice. If you must walk on ice, shuffle slowly and prepare to fall by rolling with the fall rather than reaching out. It’s better to fall backward than forward, if you can twist your body during the fall. Don’t worry about whatever you are carrying – throw it out of the way to protect your body.

If Your Fall Is Due to Another’s Negligent Actions

If you fall this winter and injure yourself, it’s possible that someone else may be responsible for the conditions that led to your accident. This guide will teach you what our laws say about slip and fall accidents.

First, you need to know that in New York a statute of limitations exists on how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. You must file suit within that time or forego the possibility of compensation.

Secondly, to win a slip and fall case, a skilled NY injury attorney must be able to prove that your accident occurred due to the property owner’s or manager’s negligence. The property owner or manager will likely try to shift some of the accountability to you. For example, they may accuse you of wearing unsafe shoes, texting while walking or walking in a restricted area. To combat these kinds of accusations and build the strongest possible case for yourself, you need the help of a knowledgeable lawyer.

It is still possible to receive compensation even if you are deemed partially responsible for what happened. New York laws permit for comparative negligence in slip and fall cases, which means a jury could hold the property owner or manager liable for a percentage of your medical bills, lost work hours, and other costs.

Do not pay for someone else’s mistakes. Get in touch with our office today.