NYC Snow and Ice Accident Lawyer
Holding Negligent Property Owners Accountable Across New York City
New York City winters can be both beautiful and dangerous. When snow and ice cover sidewalks, steps, or parking lots, even a short walk can lead to serious slip-and-fall injuries.
Under NYC Administrative Code §16-123, property owners and managers are required to clear sidewalks of snow and ice within strict time limits. When they fail to do so, they can be held liable for injuries caused by unsafe winter conditions.
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, our New York City personal injury lawyers represent clients throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. We help victims of snow and ice accidents recover maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) or contact us online for a free consultation today.
NYC Snow Removal Law: Understanding Administrative Code §16-123
The New York City Administrative Code §16-123 governs snow and ice removal. It requires property owners, tenants, lessees, and managers to clear sidewalks within specific timeframes after a storm ends.
Time Limits for Snow and Ice Removal
- 7 a.m.–5 p.m.: Must be cleared within four hours after snowfall stops.
- 5 p.m.–9 p.m.: Owners have 14 hours to complete removal.
- 9 p.m.–7 a.m.: Cleanup must be finished by 11 a.m. the next morning.
If snow or ice is too hard to remove, owners must spread salt, sand, or sawdust for traction and remove it as soon as possible.
Safe Snow and Ice Removal Practices
- Don’t pile snow in crosswalks, driveways, or streets.
- Keep entryways, bus stops, and hydrant areas clear.
- Prevent indoor slips by mopping wet floors and posting warning signs.
Who Is Responsible for Clearing Snow and Ice in NYC?
1. Property Owners and Managers
Property owners and managers have a non-delegable duty to maintain sidewalks and adjacent areas in a reasonably safe condition. If they fail to shovel, salt, or inspect within the legally mandated timeframe, they can be held liable for any resulting injuries.
2. Tenants and Lessees
Lease agreements can assign snow removal duties to tenants; however, owners remain ultimately responsible for ensuring public sidewalk safety under NYC law.
3. Snow Removal Contractors
Contractors who perform snow removal negligently – for example, by failing to salt properly or leaving ice patches – may share liability with the property owner.
4. The City of New York
The City is responsible for sidewalks near schools, libraries, and other public buildings. If you’re injured on City property, you must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident.
5. Residential Exceptions
Owner-occupied one-, two-, or three-family homes used solely for residential purposes are exempt from sidewalk injury liability. All other property owners remain responsible.
Penalties and Legal Consequences
Violations of §16-123 carry escalating penalties:
- First offense: $10–$150 fine
- Second offense (within 12 months): $150–$250 fine
- Third or later offense: $250–$350 fine and/or up to 10 days in jail
If property owners fail to clear sidewalks, the NYC Department of Sanitation can do so for them-and bill the costs directly to their property taxes.
Proving Negligence in a NYC Snow or Ice Slip-and-Fall Case
To win a claim, an injured person must prove the responsible party:
- Had a duty to clear snow and ice;
- Failed to act within the legal timeframe;
- Created or allowed a dangerous condition; and
- That this negligence caused the injury.
Evidence We Use:
- Photos or video of the icy condition
- Weather and maintenance logs
- Witness statements
- Lease or ownership records
Because evidence can melt away, contact an attorney immediately after your accident.
Common Snow and Ice Accident Injuries
Our NYC clients often suffer:
- Fractured hips, wrists, or ankles
- Back or spinal cord injuries
- Head trauma or concussions
- Torn ligaments and knee injuries
- Chronic pain or limited mobility
These injuries often necessitate lengthy recovery periods and substantial medical expenses. We will provide full compensation for all your current and future losses.
Wrongful Death from Snow or Ice Accidents
If a snow- or ice-related fall causes a fatal injury, surviving family members may bring a wrongful death claim.
Compensation can include:
- Medical and funeral expenses
- Loss of income and financial support
- Loss of companionship and parental guidance
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we help grieving families find justice and financial stability.
What To Do After a Snow or Ice Slip-and-Fall in NYC
- Get medical treatment immediately.
- Photograph the scene before the snow melts or is cleared.
- Note the exact address and nearby landmarks.
- Get witness contact information.
- Keep your shoes and clothing for evidence.
- Report the accident to the property owner or City agency.
- Call a NYC snow and ice accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Compensation Available in NYC Snow and Ice Cases
Victims may recover damages for:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitation
- Lost income and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Wrongful death damages
Our lawyers strive to ensure that every client receives the maximum financial recovery possible.
Why Choose Greenstein & Pittari, LLP
- Local NYC offices for easy access and support
- No Fee Unless We Win – Our Fee Guarantee
- Bilingual staff available to serve diverse communities
- Award-winning attorneys recognized by Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers
- Hundreds of positive client reviews across New York City
- We handle the insurance companies so you can focus on recovery
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we focus exclusively on personal injury and premises liability law – combining decades of legal experience with compassion and tenacity.
Contact a New York City Snow and Ice Accident Lawyer Today
Don’t be a victim twice-hold negligent property owners accountable.
Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) today for a free and confidential consultation.
We proudly represent clients in:
Harlem · Manhattan · Bronx · Brooklyn · Queens · Staten Island · Yonkers · Nassau County
The call is free. The consultation is free.
You don’t pay us unless we win-that’s our Fee Guarantee.
Greenstein & Pittari, LLP – Protecting New Yorkers Injured by Unsafe Sidewalks and Negligent Property Owners.