As the crisp autumn air blows through New York, signaling the start of pumpkin spice everything and picturesque Central Park strolls, it’s easy to get lost in the beauty of the season. But beneath the vibrant foliage lies a hidden danger that New Yorkers know all too well: the risk of a serious slip and fall accident.
The shift from summer to fall creates specific hazards that can turn a simple walk to the subway or a trip to the grocery store into a life-altering event. Ignoring these risks is not an option. Your safety, and that of your loved ones, is paramount.
Here are the top causes of fall season accidents in New York and what you need to know about them.
1. The Deceiving Danger of Fallen Leaves
Those beautiful, swirling leaves that blanket our sidewalks and parks are more than just a seasonal spectacle—they are a major slip hazard. When wet from rain or morning dew, fallen leaves become a slick, treacherous carpet. Even worse, they can hide dangerous conditions like cracked pavement, potholes, or icy patches that form as temperatures drop. A quick, innocent step can result in a painful fall, leading to broken bones, head injuries, or sprains.
2. Wet and Uneven Surfaces
Autumn in New York is notoriously unpredictable. A sunny morning can turn into a downpour in a matter of minutes. This sudden moisture makes all surfaces—from marble subway stairs to polished store floors—incredibly slick. When property owners fail to place “wet floor” signs or to dry their premises promptly, they are putting your safety at risk. Furthermore, the city's aging sidewalks, with their uneven slabs and dangerous cracks, become even more hazardous when obscured by water or debris.
3. Shorter Days, Diminished Visibility
As Daylight Saving Time ends, the sun sets earlier, plunging our streets, parking lots, and walkways into darkness. Poor lighting is a major contributor to slip and fall accidents. A dimly lit stairwell or a dark alley can hide a loose handrail, an unmarked curb, or a patch of debris, making it impossible to see a hazard until it's too late. Property owners have a legal obligation to ensure their premises are adequately lit to prevent such preventable accidents.
4. The Early Frost Factor
While we typically associate ice with winter, New York’s fall season often brings a surprise: early morning frost. A thin, nearly invisible layer of black ice can form on steps, ramps, and sidewalks overnight, catching unsuspecting pedestrians off guard. This is especially common on elevated walkways and near bodies of water. A property owner's failure to monitor and salt these areas can be considered a form of negligence, making them responsible for any injuries that occur.
Holding Negligent Parties Accountable
A slip and fall accident is not always "just an accident." Under New York premises liability law, property owners have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition for visitors. If you or a loved one is injured due to a hazardous condition that the owner knew about, or should have known about, you may have a right to seek compensation. This isn't about frivolous lawsuits; it's about holding negligent parties accountable for their failure to protect the public.
If you have been seriously injured in a slip and fall accident this season, you need a law firm that understands the intricacies of New York's legal system and has a proven record of fighting for what’s right. Godosky & Gentile has spent decades advocating for injured New Yorkers, securing substantial verdicts and settlements for our clients. Don't let a negligent property owner get away with their carelessness. We are here to help you get the justice and financial recovery you deserve.
Contact us today at (212) 742-9706 to schedule a confidential consultation.