New York City Falling Ice Lawyer
Everyone in New York City loves to walk on the public sidewalks and visit the museums, restaurants and other great places. Many New Yorkers also walk on the public sidewalks on their way to work every single day. One of the growing problems in New York City is the accumulation of snow and ice on commercial and residential buildings. Many times large blocks of ice have fallen off these buildings and violently struck innocent pedestrians walking along the public sidewalks. These falling blocks of snow and ice have caused serious personal injuries to many pedestrians. If you or a family member were walking along a public sidewalk and struck by a block of falling snow or ice, and suffered serious injuries, please call us at 212-725-8500 today.
New York’s skyline is stunning, but it also comes with unique hazards during the colder months. Heavy ice and snow can accumulate on rooftops, building ledges, bridges, and even subway structures, suddenly crashing down and causing serious injuries. Pedestrians, commuters, and motorists passing below these towering structures may face unexpected dangers as winter weather creates treacherous conditions. If you have been struck by ice falling from above, working with a New York City falling ice lawyer at Michael Gunzburg, P.C. can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Ice and Snow Falling from Buildings
Throughout Manhattan’s midtown, the Financial District’s tall towers, and the residential high-rises that line the Upper East and West Sides, ice and snow can collect on roofs and window ledges. When temperatures fluctuate, that frozen buildup may loosen and plummet onto the sidewalks or streets below. Innocent passersby are suddenly subjected to dangerous impacts from large chunks of ice. Property owners and managers are expected to take reasonable steps to prevent these incidents, such as timely removal of ice and snow, or the installation of protective devices like snow guards. When they fail to do so, serious injuries can result, including concussions, broken bones, and even fatalities.
Many building owners know about this repetitive winter weather problem of snow and ice accumulating on their buildings. The problem is that the snow and ice accumulates overnight on their buildings when it is cold outside. Then during the day the sun warms the snow and ice up and causes it to melt and slide off the building. Just as these large blocks of snow and ice are falling off the building, pedestrians are innocently walking along the public sidewalk on their way to work. Some reputable building owners take responsibility for their buildings and remedy theses dangerous conditions. Other building owners completely ignore it. They claim that the cost to repair the problem is much greater than the cost of insurance to handle and pay compensation to the injured person. As a result, and despite their knowledge of other pedestrians being struck and injured, these building owners do nothing to correct these very dangerous conditions. If you or a family member were walking along a public sidewalk and violently struck by a falling block of snow or ice, and were seriously injured, please call us at 212-725-8500 today!
Falling Ice from Bridges
Spanning waterways and connecting boroughs, New York City’s iconic bridges can also pose a risk during harsh winter weather. Ice can accumulate on the cables, trusses, and supports of structures like the Brooklyn Bridge or the Manhattan Bridge. As traffic and vibrations loosen the frozen sheets, they may fall onto pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles passing underneath. Injuries from these incidents may be severe due to the great height from which the ice falls and the weight of the ice chunks themselves. Municipalities or agencies responsible for bridge maintenance must inspect for ice buildup and take steps to prevent accidents.
Subway and Elevated Train Structures
New York’s extensive subway system is not limited to underground tunnels. Elevated tracks, platforms, and stations expose commuters and pedestrians to potential falling ice hazards. Icy formations can form on track overhangs, station roofs, and platform edges. When train vibrations or temperature changes cause this ice to drop, anyone standing below can be harmed. Transit authorities and maintenance workers are responsible for monitoring these areas and taking action to ensure that ice is removed promptly and safely.
Other Common Situations in NYC
Icy conditions are not limited to buildings, bridges, and subways. Consider these other scenarios:
- Traffic signals, street signs, and awnings that accumulate ice and send it crashing down when shaken by passing vehicles or changing weather conditions.
- Construction sites where scaffolding and cranes can collect ice and snow, creating hazards not only for the workers but also for people passing on sidewalks below.
- Large commercial signs and billboards installed high above street level can experience ice buildup around their frames, posing a risk if not properly maintained.
The variety of structures in New York City’s landscape means falling ice dangers can appear almost anywhere.
Where These Accidents Commonly Occur
- Busy commercial corridors in Midtown and Lower Manhattan, where tall buildings line crowded sidewalks.
- Bridges connecting boroughs and neighborhoods, exposing motorists and pedestrians to falling ice overhead.
- Elevated train lines running above city streets, particularly in neighborhoods with aging transit infrastructure.
- Areas beneath large awnings or overhangs at retail shops, hotels, and restaurants.
- Construction sites where temporary structures are not always cleared of snow and ice in a timely manner.
How the Law Works in Falling Ice Cases
Legal responsibility for falling ice injuries typically hinges on whether the party responsible for the structure took reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable hazards. Under New York law, property owners, contractors, and municipal authorities owe a duty of care to individuals who use their premises or pass nearby. They must exercise proper maintenance and timely snow and ice removal. If they fail in this duty and someone is injured as a result, that party may be held liable.
In practice, proving liability can be complex. Victims must show that the responsible party had notice or should have known about the icy conditions and had a reasonable opportunity to address them. Additionally, governmental entities may have specific notice requirements or immunity protections that complicate claims. An experienced lawyer can help navigate these legal hurdles and identify the appropriate defendants, whether that’s a private landowner, a city agency, or a subcontractor hired for maintenance.
Potential Compensation
Victims of falling ice accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation. Depending on the extent of the injuries, recoverable damages can include:
- Medical expenses, such as emergency care, hospital stays, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing therapies.
- Lost wages due to missed work while recovering from injuries, as well as future earning potential if the injury results in long-term impairment.
- Pain and suffering, reflecting both the physical pain and the emotional distress caused by the accident and its aftermath.
- Other expenses related to the injury, including in-home care, medical devices, or modifications to living spaces if mobility is impacted.
Accurately assessing the value of your claim is vital. A thorough review of medical records, consultation with experts, and a clear understanding of the injury’s impact on your life help build a solid case for fair compensation.
Why You Need an Injury Lawyer
Seeking legal representation after a falling ice accident is crucial. Having a lawyer on your side provides several essential benefits:
- A detailed investigation of the incident to uncover evidence supporting your claim, including surveillance footage, inspection records, and witness statements.
- Identification of all potentially liable parties, such as building owners, property managers, contractors, maintenance crews, or government entities responsible for public structures.
- Negotiation with insurance companies that may attempt to deny or minimize your claim.
- Guidance through the often confusing legal procedures, ensuring that deadlines are met, documents are filed correctly, and no crucial steps are missed.
- Preparation for trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation. An attorney can present a compelling case before a judge or jury, protecting your interests.
Without a skilled advocate, you risk navigating a complicated legal process alone and potentially accepting a settlement that does not fully cover your losses.
How Michael Gunzburg, P.C. Can Help
We recently represented a man who came out of a subway station, and was walking on his way to work on a public sidewalk. All of sudden, a large piece of ice fell off a building and violently struck the man and caused him to suffer serious and permanent injuries. The man was unable to get up and an ambulance transported him to the emergency room at the local hospital. After undergoing multiple surgeries, he was unable to return to work and complained of continuous pain. We successfully represented this man and made a substantial recovery for him and his family.
Michael Gunzburg, P.C. has extensive experience advocating for victims of falling ice injuries throughout New York City. Our firm understands the local laws, building codes, and maintenance standards that property owners and public agencies must follow. We will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of your accident, seeking evidence to establish who was responsible and how they failed to prevent it.
- Work with expert witnesses, such as engineers, meteorologists, and safety professionals, to strengthen your case.
- Negotiate forcefully with insurance companies and defendants to secure a fair settlement that meets your current and future needs.
- Take your case to trial if necessary, presenting a compelling argument that fully reflects the harm you’ve suffered.
Our priority is ensuring that you have the resources to rebuild your life after a serious falling ice injury.
Serving Throughout New York City
- Manhattan
- Brooklyn
- Queens
- The Bronx
- Staten Island
- Upper East Side
- Upper West Side
- Harlem
- Chelsea
- SoHo
- Tribeca
- Williamsburg
- Bushwick
- Astoria
- Long Island City
- Flushing
- Fordham
- Riverdale
- St. George
- Todt Hill
Contact a New York City Falling Ice Attorney
If you or a loved one have been injured by falling ice in New York City, do not hesitate to seek legal help. Contact a New York City falling ice attorney at Michael Gunzburg, P.C. to learn about your rights and potential legal strategies. We are committed to guiding you through every step of the process and fighting for the financial compensation you deserve.
We have over 37 years of battle tested trial experience and stand ready to put our experience behind your case. We offer an initial free consultation. Contact Michael Gunzburg, P.C., at 212-725-8500, and learn more about how we can help you with your falling snow and ice case!
