Albany winters bring heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and icy conditions. The season creates a challenging environment for residents and visitors alike. Slick sidewalks, frozen driveways, and snow-covered parking lots increase the likelihood of slip-and-fall accidents. These hazards can lead to serious injuries, making winter a particularly dangerous time to traverse outdoor spaces in Albany.
Here is an overview of how the weather in our city leads to a rise in fall injuries due to snow and ice.
The Impact of Albany's Winter Weather
Albany winters bring frequent snowfall, creating thick layers of snow that cover streets and pathways. Snowfall often accumulates quickly, making timely removal difficult in busy areas. Ice forms on sidewalks and driveways when temperatures drop below freezing. Similarly, freezing rain coats surfaces with a slick, nearly invisible layer of ice. These conditions reduce traction and increase the risk of slipping.
Snow obscures uneven surfaces, potholes, and curbs, causing unexpected trips and falls, and ice creates a hard, slippery surface that eliminates stability for pedestrians. Freezing rain intensifies these hazards by covering already icy areas with another treacherous layer.
Parking lots become particularly dangerous when plows push snow into large mounds, blocking visibility and restricting movement. Public spaces in Albany experience frequent icy conditions, making walking and driving dangerous during winter months.
Common Causes of Slip-and-fall Accidents in Winter
- Ice-covered walkways and steps cause many accidents during the winter. Ice forms a smooth and slippery surface that reduces footing and balance. People walking on untreated paths often lose traction and fall. Steps covered in ice also challenge individuals trying to ascend or descend safely.
- Improper snow or ice removal practices contribute to hazardous conditions. When property owners or maintenance workers fail to clear snow promptly, walkways and stairs accumulate dangerous layers. Packed snow hardens into ice, increasing the potential for slips and falls.
- A lack of salting or sanding on walkways creates additional risks. Unsalted walkways allow ice to remain slippery and hard. Sand adds grip to walking surfaces, but its absence leaves pedestrians vulnerable. Without these treatments, winter paths become unsafe for travel.
Legal Considerations Surrounding Slip-and-fall Accidents
Understanding liability in premises liability cases requires knowledge of property responsibilities. Property owners must maintain safe conditions to protect visitors. They must address hazards like ice, snow, or uneven surfaces promptly.
Courts determine liability based on failure to uphold this duty of care. Visitors must also exercise caution while on a property, as their actions can influence liability outcomes.
Documenting incidents and gathering evidence supports claims in slip-and-fall cases. Injured individuals should take photographs of the hazardous area immediately after the accident. They should also collect contact information from witnesses who observed the incident.
Medical records and expense receipts also provide proof of injury and financial impact. Detailed records can strengthen legal arguments and improve case outcomes.
Getting Help from an Attorney
At Hacker Murphy, LLP, our personal injury attorneys offer experienced legal counsel to individuals who have been injured. We thoroughly assess the strength of a potential claim by examining evidence and identifying the parties responsible for the injury. Our team ensures that clients understand their rights by clearly explaining the legal procedures involved in the process.
Our attorneys are dedicated to preparing thorough documentation, meeting necessary filing deadlines, and negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair settlements before pursuing litigation. If the case progresses to court, we vigorously represent our clients, presenting evidence, questioning witnesses, and building strong arguments to achieve the best possible outcomes. Our expertise and resources increase the likelihood of obtaining compensation for our clients.
If you are hurt in a slip-and-fall incident this winter, reach out to us for help. We can evaluate your case and help you decide your next steps. Consultations are free, so call us at (518) 284-3183 or contact us online.