Slip and fall accidents in New York aren’t the only danger in the city after a snowfall. In fact, after a prolonged period of snow build-up or as temperatures warms enough to melt ice off roofs and building facades, New York City sidewalks become danger zones for pedestrians. Icicles and large clumps of snow weighing 40 pounds or more can break loose and hurdle to the sidewalk below. Every year these falling ice accidents in New York injure people, some very severely which often means lost time from work.
After this near-record-breaking blizzard, an unidentified victim was walking down West Broadway in Manhattan. The mid-morning sun had warmed building facades and rooftops just enough to begin the melting process. A large deposit broke free just as the woman was passing underneath and she was crushed under its weight.
When rescue workers arrived, they were able to stabilize the woman and transport her to a local hospital. She suffered non-life-threatening injuries and is expected to make a full recovery but there is no telling how long that recovery process will be. The incident highlights the danger as we walk along sidewalks beneath high-rises and skyscrapers.
The Department of Buildings had issued a warning just a day prior to this falling ice accident in Manhattan, reminding property owners that under the Administrative Code of the City of New York, property owners are responsible for clearing away snow and ice buildup or blocking off the sidewalks below so that pedestrians and vehicles can pass safely. Property owners can also be held accountable for an injured victim’s injuries, medical expenses and lost time from work.
Failure to safeguard pedestrians can result in DOB citations. Unfortunately, this failure can also result in severe injuries to accident victims injured because of the property owner’s negligence. If you or a loved one has been injured by debris, snow or ice falling from above, contact an expert New York City falling ice and snow attorney today. Call the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel for a free consultation at or 212-385-1122 to learn your rights.