Winter Weather Creates Serious Hazards — Know Your Rights

Recent snowstorms, blistering temperatures, and lingering ice have created dangerous walking and driving conditions across our region. Sidewalks have turned slick, parking lots are treacherous, and roadways remain unpredictable long after the snow stops falling. Unfortunately, these winter hazards often lead to preventable accidents — and serious injuries.

When winter weather strikes, safety doesn’t become optional. Property owners and drivers alike have legal responsibilities to act reasonably and protect others from harm.

Homeowners and Property Owners Must Keep Walkways Safe

Homeowners, landlords, and commercial property owners have a duty to maintain safe pathways for pedestrians. This includes clearing snow and ice from sidewalks, steps, driveways, and entryways within a reasonable time after a storm. Failing to shovel, salt, or otherwise address known hazards can expose property owners to liability when someone is injured.

Common winter slip and fall accidents include:

• Falls on icy sidewalks and steps
• Slips in untreated parking lots or building entrances
• Falls caused by refreezing snow or melting ice

These accidents often result in:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Head injuries and concussions
• Back, neck, and spinal injuries
• Torn ligaments and soft-tissue damage

What may seem like a “simple fall” can quickly become a life-altering injury with lasting medical and financial consequences.

Drivers Are Still Responsible — Even in Bad Weather

Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures do not excuse negligent driving. Motorists are expected to adjust their behavior to match road conditions. Driving too fast for conditions, following too closely, failing to clear windshields, or ignoring hazardous conditions can all amount to negligence.

Winter-related motor vehicle accidents often involve:

• Rear-end collisions on icy roads
• Intersection crashes caused by sliding or failure to stop
• Pedestrian accidents in snow-covered crosswalks
• Multi-vehicle pileups during storms or black ice conditions

Injuries from winter driving accidents can be severe, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, internal injuries, and permanent disability.

Standing With Injury Victims for 80 Years

For more than 80 years, Galfand Berger has stood by the side of injury victims and their families. We understand how overwhelming it can be to face mounting medical bills, missed work, and uncertainty about the future — especially when an accident could have been prevented.

Our experienced personal injury attorneys investigate winter weather accidents thoroughly, identify responsible parties, and fight to hold negligent property owners and drivers accountable. We handle slip-and-fall cases, pedestrian injuries, and motor vehicle accidents caused by unsafe winter conditions, and we are committed to pursuing the full compensation our clients deserve.

You Don’t Have to Face This Alone

If you or a loved one was injured due to icy walkways, unsafe property conditions, or negligent driving during winter weather, help is available. Winter may be unavoidable — but preventable injuries should not be ignored.

Galfand Berger LLP is here to protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and stand with you every step of the way.  Contact our firm at 1-800-222-8792 or at [email protected].