Winter’s icy grip can pose a tremendous hazard for pedestrians, making sidewalks treacherous and increasing the risk of slip and fall accidents. If you’ve been unfortunate enough to fall on a snow or ice-covered sidewalk in the Bronx, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Understanding Slip and Fall Liability on Sidewalks
Under New York law, property owners and occupiers have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a safe condition for visitors. This includes taking reasonable steps to remove or remediate hazardous conditions, such as snow and ice buildup on sidewalks. Failure to uphold this duty of care can result in liability for injuries caused by slip and fall accidents.
Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents on Sidewalks
Snow and ice accumulation, especially after a sudden snowfall or snowfall-freezing rain events, are a primary cause of slip and fall accidents on sidewalks. Other common contributing factors include:
- Irregularities in the sidewalk surface, such as cracks, dips, or uneven paving
- Improper snow removal or ice melt application
- Lack of adequate lighting on sidewalks
- Placement of obstructions or debris on sidewalks
Protecting Yourself from Slip and Fall Accidents on Sidewalks
While property owners have a responsibility to keep sidewalks safe, you can also take steps to protect yourself from slip and fall accidents:
- Wear appropriate footwear for winter weather, such as boots with good traction
- Be extra cautious when walking on sidewalks after snowfall or freezing rain
- Avoid walking on sidewalks when the snow or ice is deep or has not been properly cleared
- Use crosswalks and be aware of traffic when crossing the street
Seeking Legal Representation for Slip and Fall Accidents on Sidewalks
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident on a snowy or icy sidewalk in the Bronx, it’s crucial to seek legal counsel to protect your rights and pursue compensation for your damages. The Law Offices Of Michael T. Ridge, with over 30 years of experience in personal injury law, is dedicated to helping victims of slip and fall accidents recover the compensation they deserve.
Our Services for Bronx Slip and Fall Victims
Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of slip and fall cases and will work tirelessly to:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of the accident scene and gather evidence
- Document your injuries and related medical expenses
- Assess your legal options and advise you on the best course of action
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to reach a fair settlement
- Take your case to court if necessary to obtain the maximum compensation you deserve
Free Consultation with a Bronx Slip and Fall Lawyer
At The Law Offices Of Michael T. Ridge, we offer a free consultation to all slip and fall accident victims in the Bronx. During this consultation, we will:
- Review the details of your accident and assess your injuries
- Discuss your legal options and potential for compensation
- Answer any questions you may have about the legal process
Don’t Let Insurance Companies Minimize the Impact of Your Injuries
Insurance companies often try to minimize the severity of slip and fall injuries and lowball settlement offers. With our expertise and commitment to your best interests, we will fight to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve for your injuries, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages.
Call Us Today for Your Free Consultation
Don’t wait to seek legal help after a slip and fall accident on a snow or ice-covered sidewalk in the Bronx. The statute of limitations for filing a slip and fall lawsuit against a private defendant in New York is three years from the date of the accident. Claims against The City of New York must be filed within one year and 90 days from the date of the accident and require a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the date of the accident. Failure to follow these strict deadlines can lead to your case being disallowed or dismissed.Time is of the essence to preserve your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact The Law Offices Of Michael T. Ridge today for a free consultation and let us fight for your justice. We are here to help you get the compensation you deserve and hold the negligent property owner or occupier accountable for their actions.