Slip and Fall on Ice in New York: What You Need to Know
Let’s talk about snowstorms, slip-and-fall injuries, and what New York law says about them.
Here in New York, the weather can change quickly—and recently, we went from no snow to over a foot of accumulation almost overnight. When snow and ice suddenly appear, we often get calls from people who’ve been injured after slipping in a parking lot or on a sidewalk. One of the first questions we ask is: Did the fall happen during the storm or after it ended?
The “Storm in Progress” Rule in New York
Under New York law, property owners are generally not liable for slip-and-fall injuries that happen during a snowstorm. The law recognizes that it’s unreasonable to expect landowners to clear snow and ice while the storm is still going on. So if you fall while it’s still snowing or sleeting, the owner might not be responsible.
When a Property Owner Can Be Held Liable
There are important exceptions to this rule.
For example:
- If the property owner failed to address snow or ice from a prior storm—maybe it snowed three days ago, then refroze and got covered by fresh snow during the new storm—that’s a different story. In that case, the owner may be held liable for neglecting to take reasonable steps to remove dangerous conditions.
- Or if the storm ended and the owner didn’t take timely action, that’s another possible case of negligence.
Real-World Example
Imagine this:
It snows heavily on Monday. By Tuesday morning, the snow has stopped. That evening, you attend an event at a local hotel. The parking lot hasn’t been cleared, and there’s still snow and ice on the ground. You step out of your car, slip, fall, and suffer a serious injury.In this situation, the hotel likely had enough time to make the area safe but failed to do so. Under New York law, that could make them liable for your injuries.
Common Slip-and-Fall Injuries
These accidents often result in:
- Broken bones (arms, legs, wrists)
- Head injuries
- Back or spinal injuries
These aren’t just bumps and bruises—they can have lasting impacts on your life and finances.
What You Should Do
Every case is different. That’s why it’s important to speak to an experienced attorney who understands New York premises liability laws. We’ll help you determine whether the “storm in progress” rule applies, whether any exceptions are relevant, and if the property owner acted negligently.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to snow or ice, don’t navigate this alone. We’re here to help. Call us or visit our website for a free consultation. Let’s talk about your options and how to protect your rights.