New York City winters bring beautiful snow, but they also make sidewalks and streets dangerous for people walking. While fresh snow looks nice, the ice that comes after can create serious risks. Slipping and falling on icy sidewalks is a common winter injury, often causing broken bones, concussions, and long-term mobility problems. Property owners, businesses, and the city have a responsibility to keep sidewalks and entrances safe for everyone.
Many people think that the city clears all sidewalks and streets, but that’s not always true. Private property owners must shovel and de-ice the sidewalks next to their buildings. If they do not do this on time, they could get fined and may be held responsible if someone gets hurt.
Who is Legally Required to Remove Snow and Ice?
In New York City, property owners are responsible for removing snow and ice. This includes homeowners, landlords, business owners, and some tenants, depending on their lease agreements. The NYC Administrative Code says that sidewalks must be cleared within a certain time after the snowfall stops—usually within four hours for snow that falls during the day and by 11 AM for overnight snow. If property owners do not clear snow and ice on time, they can face fines and may be liable for slip-and-fall accidents.
When property owners neglect this responsibility, pedestrians who slip and suffer injuries may have legal grounds to file a claim. Navigating these claims can be complex, especially when insurance companies attempt to shift blame. Law Offices of Jay S. Knispel Personal Injury Lawyers is a trusted firm for handling New York City slip and fall injuries, helping victims secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation. Holding negligent property owners accountable ensures safer sidewalks for everyone during the winter months.
What About Public Property and City-Owned Sidewalks?
Property owners are responsible for clearing the sidewalks next to their homes, while the city takes care of the streets, public plazas, and certain government-owned sidewalks. The Department of Sanitation uses plows and salt spreaders to keep main roads clear, but smaller streets and neighborhood walkways may not get the same attention. The city also maintains public parks and subway entrances, but how quickly they respond can depend on how bad the storm is.
Despite these efforts, city-managed areas can still be risky if snow removal is slow or not done properly. If someone gets hurt due to ice on public property, figuring out who is at fault can be more difficult than with private property cases. To make a claim against the city, you must follow specific legal steps and often show that officials knew about the danger but did nothing. These claims need to be made quickly because the deadlines for suing government entities are much shorter than those for regular personal injury cases.
What Happens When a Landlord or Business Fails to Clear Ice?
Tenants living in apartment buildings and customers visiting businesses rely on landlords and store owners to maintain safe entryways. If a landlord neglects to clear snow and ice from a building’s entrance or shared walkways, tenants and visitors are at risk of slipping and suffering serious injuries. Business owners have a similar responsibility to ensure their storefronts are free from ice buildup, providing customers with a safe path to enter.
When a slip-and-fall occurs on commercial property, liability often falls on the business or property management company. If multiple parties are responsible for maintenance—such as a landlord and a contracted snow removal service—the legal situation becomes more complex. Courts will look at whether reasonable efforts were made to clear the ice, as well as how long the hazard was present before the accident. In these cases, gathering evidence such as photos, witness statements, and medical records is crucial for proving negligence.
How Can Pedestrians Protect Themselves in Icy Conditions?
Property owners and businesses need to keep sidewalks clear, but pedestrians also have a role in staying safe during winter. To prevent falls on snowy and icy sidewalks, wear shoes with good traction, walk slowly, and avoid shortcuts through areas that haven’t been cleared. Keep your hands out of your pockets for better balance, and use handrails when they are available. Even careful walkers can slip if sidewalks are not maintained.
New Yorkers are often in a rush, but winter weather demands more caution. Black ice is hard to see and can surprise even the most careful pedestrians. Carrying a small bag of sand or salt can help create traction on slippery spots. Stay aware of your surroundings and watch for potential dangers to make walking on winter streets safer.
What Should You Do After a Slip-and-Fall Accident?
If you fall due to an uncleared sidewalk, it’s important to act quickly to protect your rights. Your first step should always be to seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Next, report the accident to the property owner, store manager, or landlord to make sure there is a record of what happened. If you can, take photos of the icy conditions and gather contact information from any witnesses; this can be useful evidence.
Many people who slip and fall are hesitant to take legal action, thinking it was their own fault. However, property owners must keep their areas safe. If they don’t, it can lead to serious injuries. If you experience an injury, a personal injury claim can help pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and other costs related to the accident. Talking to an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
The Importance of Holding Property Owners Accountable
Removing snow and ice is important for keeping everyone safe in New York City. Property owners must clear the walkways to prevent accidents and injuries. When businesses and landlords fail to do this, they should be held responsible for any harm that happens. Taking legal action helps ensure that they are accountable and encourages safer practices across the city.
Keeping sidewalks safe benefits both property owners and the public. Addressing ice hazards quickly prevents accidents and lowers the chances of facing legal claims. Staying informed and taking action helps everyone remain safe during winter. Winter in New York City can be unpredictable, but safety should always come first.
