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Winter in New York transforms everyday travel into a serious safety challenge. Snowy highways in Westchester County, icy on-ramps along the Bronx River Parkway, slush-covered streets in Manhattan, and reduced visibility on the Whitestone or Tappan Zee Bridge all combine to make winter driving especially dangerous. Each year, winter weather contributes to thousands of crashes, injuries, and preventable tragedies across the NYC metropolitan region.
For more than 35 years, The Law Offices of Norman Gershon has represented clients injured in winter car accidents throughout Westchester County, White Plains, Yonkers, the Bronx, Queens, and Manhattan. With tens of millions recovered—and verdicts as high as $16.5 million, $14.5 million, $7.5 million, $5 million, $3 million, and more—Norman is the trial lawyer other attorneys call for the toughest cases.
Below is what New Yorkers need to know about winter accident risks, common injuries, and the steps to take after a crash.
Why Winter Accidents Spike in New York
Federal and state crash data shows that almost 24% of all U.S. crashes occur on snowy, icy, or slushy pavement, and another 15% occur during active snow or sleet storms. In the NYC metro area, winter risk is even higher. The NYC Pedestrian Safety Study found nearly 20% more accidents during the winter holiday season, driven by:
- Snow and ice that reduce tire traction
- Slower traffic flow and clogged highways (I-95, I-87, I-278, Bronx River Parkway, Hutchinson River Parkway)
- Reduced maneuverability on narrow city streets
- Low visibility during storms, especially at night
- Increased holiday travel and late-night gatherings
- Drunk or impaired driving after celebrations
Westchester County also sees significant spikes on heavily traveled roads such as the Saw Mill Parkway, Cross County Parkway, Sprain Brook Parkway, and major arterials through White Plains and Yonkers.
Common Causes of Winter Crashes
Winter collisions often occur because:
1. Loss of traction
Black ice on the Bronx River Parkway or slick snow on I-87 can cause vehicles to lose control instantly—even at low speeds.
2. Poor visibility
Snowfall, fog, sleet, and early sunsets contribute to reduced depth perception and delayed reaction times.
3. Congested roads
Traffic backs up on major NYC and Westchester highways during storms, increasing the likelihood of chain-reaction crashes.
4. Holiday factors
More vehicles on the road. More distractions. More alcohol at celebrations. All of this increases risk.
Where Winter Accidents Happen Most
While crashes occur everywhere, several New York roadways are especially dangerous in winter:
- I-87 (Major Deegan & NY Thruway)
- I-95 / Cross Bronx Expressway
- Bronx River Parkway
- Hutchinson River Parkway
- Saw Mill River Parkway
- Cross County Parkway
- Queens Boulevard & Northern Boulevard
- FDR Drive & West Side Highway
- Whitestone & Throgs Neck Bridge approaches
In Queens alone, winter driving fatalities historically rank among the highest in the state.
Common Injuries in Winter Car Accidents
Winter crashes frequently involve:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Cervical or lumbar spine injuries
- Herniated discs requiring fusion surgery
- Broken bones and fractures
- Whiplash and nerve damage
- Severe lacerations or burns
- Partial or permanent paralysis
These injuries can be life-altering—physically, emotionally, and financially. Recovery often requires extensive treatment, including surgeries, therapy, lost wages, and long-term medical care.
Norman Gershon’s Record of Results
When injuries are severe, you need a car accident lawyer prepared to take your case all the way. Norman’s results include:
- $16,500,000 verdict (passenger vs. NYCTA bus collision)
- $14,500,000 settlement (bus accident, multiple surgeries)
- $7,500,000 verdict (bus passenger, lumbar fusion)
- $5,445,000 verdict (motor vehicle crash, cervical & lumbar fusions)
- $3,750,000 verdict (motor vehicle accident, lumbar fusion)
- $3,000,000 verdict (motor vehicle crash, spine injury)
- $2,500,000 verdict (Westchester motor-vehicle intersection accident)
These outcomes reflect what clients repeatedly say about Norman:
“Smart, experienced, compassionate… a fighter.” — Michael Benowich
“He worked magic and got me more than expected.” — Nancy Joyce
“Watching him in court was like seeing Law & Order in real life.” — L. Miller, NYC
“He delivers results. He’s family.” — S.W., New York
How to Reduce Your Risk When Driving in Winter
While no one can prevent every accident, drivers can lower their risk:
Avoid driving during storms
If you must drive, give yourself extra time and avoid highways known for black ice (Saw Mill, Hutch, Bronx River Parkway).
Increase following distance
Icy roads require much longer stopping distances.
Use winter tires or chains
Especially important in northern Westchester or when traveling to higher elevations.
Never drive while impaired
Holiday gatherings are a major cause of winter drunk-driving crashes.
Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle
Blankets, gloves, food, water, flares, and a phone charger can be lifesaving during long delays.
What to Do After a Winter Car Accident
After a crash:
1. Call 911 immediately
Police and EMS are essential—especially during cold weather when injuries can worsen quickly.
2. Get medical attention
Even if you feel “okay,” winter crashes often cause hidden injuries.
3. Document the scene
Take photos of road conditions, skid marks, ice patches, vehicle damage, and injuries.
4. Exchange information
Get the other driver’s ID, plate number, insurance information, and witness contact details.
5. Contact a skilled New York car accident lawyer
New York’s no-fault insurance system covers initial medical expenses, but serious injuries and negligence claims require an experienced attorney who knows how to fight—and win.
Why Winter Accident Victims Trust Norman Gershon
Norman is widely respected for his trial skill, meticulous preparation, and relentless advocacy. Clients describe him as:
- “Brilliant… a beast in the courtroom.”
- “A fighter who leaves nothing to chance.”
- “Personable, nurturing, and always prepared.”
- “The rare breed of lawyer everyone wants on their side.”
For over 35 years, Norman has delivered life-changing results for injured New Yorkers throughout:
Westchester County (White Plains, Yonkers, New Rochelle, Mount Vernon)
Bronx • Manhattan • Queens • Brooklyn • Long Island • NYC Metro
If you were injured in a winter driving accident, you deserve a lawyer who knows the terrain, understands the courts, and has a proven record of winning the toughest cases.
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