Common Winter Accidents in Westchester County and NYC — And What You Can Do After a Serious Injury

Photo courtesy of News 12

Winter in Westchester County and New York City has its own kind of beauty—snow-covered neighborhoods, holiday lights, and brisk mornings. But winter weather also brings real dangers that lead to thousands of preventable injuries every year. From icy sidewalks in White Plains to snow-covered highways in Yonkers, the Bronx, Manhattan, and Queens, winter conditions dramatically increase the risk of serious accidents.

At the Law Offices of Norman Gershon, we represent people whose lives are turned upside down by winter-related injuries—especially car accidents caused by icy, snow-packed roads. Knowing the risks can help you stay safer, but when negligence causes harm, having the right car accident lawyer matters.

1. Slip-and-Fall Accidents on Snow and Ice

One of the most common winter accidents in Westchester and NYC is the slip and fall. Sidewalks, parking lots, building entrances, and stairwells can become dangerously slick when snow and ice aren’t properly cleared.

Safety tips:

• Wear footwear with good traction

• Take short, deliberate steps

• Use handrails whenever possible

• Be cautious stepping off curbs or exiting vehicles

Property owners, landlords, and municipalities may be liable when they fail to address icy conditions in a reasonable time.

2. Car Accidents on Icy and Snowy Roads

Winter driving is especially hazardous on major roadways like the Hutchinson River Parkway, Taconic State Parkway, I-287, and city streets throughout NYC. Black ice, reduced visibility, and longer stopping distances often result in rear-end crashes, spinouts, and multi-vehicle collisions.

To reduce risk:

• Drive slower than posted limits

• Increase following distance

• Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns

• Stay off the roads during severe storms when possible

When a winter crash happens, insurance companies are quick to blame “the weather.” An experienced car accident lawyer in Westchester County or NYC knows how to prove when another driver’s negligence—not the snow—caused your injuries.

3. Carbon Monoxide Exposure During Winter

Colder months increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning due to malfunctioning heating systems or improper generator use. These incidents can cause serious injury or death, particularly in apartment buildings and private homes.

Prevention includes:

• Proper maintenance of heating systems

• Never using grills or generators indoors

• Installing working carbon monoxide detectors

4. Frostbite and Hypothermia Injuries

Extended exposure to cold can lead to frostbite or hypothermia, particularly among outdoor workers, pedestrians, and vulnerable populations. Numbness, confusion, and severe tissue damage require immediate medical attention.

5. Falling Snow and Ice From Roofs

In dense areas like White Plains, Yonkers, and NYC, snow and ice sliding off rooftops can seriously injure pedestrians below. Property owners have a duty to address hazardous accumulations and dangerous icicles.

Why Legal Experience Matters After a Winter Accident

Winter accident cases often involve serious injuries—spinal damage, fractures, traumatic brain injuries, and permanent disability. These claims demand more than a quick settlement.

With more than 35 years of trial experience, Norman Gershon is widely recognized as the attorney other lawyers call when a case is complex or high-stakes. He has recovered tens of millions of dollars for injured clients across Westchester County and New York City.

Notable Case Results Include:

• $16.5 million verdict – Auto passenger struck by bus (Bronx Supreme Court)

• $14.5 million settlement – Catastrophic bus accident (Queens Supreme Court)

• $5+ million verdicts – Multiple motor vehicle accident cases across NYC boroughs

• $2.5 million verdict – Motor vehicle intersection crash (Westchester Supreme Court)

What Clients Say

Clients consistently describe Norman Gershon as prepared, compassionate, and relentless in court:

“Call Norman Gershon if you want the best result.” — Michael Benowich

“He got me a bigger settlement than I expected.” — Nancy Joyce

“Watching him in court was like watching Law & Order.” — L. Miller, NYC

Injured in a Winter Accident? Protect Your Rights

If you were injured in a winter car accident, slip and fall, or other weather-related incident in Westchester County, White Plains, Yonkers, Manhattan, Queens, or the Bronx, do not assume the insurance company is on your side.

A seasoned car accident lawyer can:

• Preserve time-sensitive evidence

• Identify all responsible parties

• Accurately value future medical needs

• Take your case to trial if necessary

At the Law Offices of Norman Gershon, every case is prepared with the expectation that it will be tried—because that preparation is what drives real results.

Winter may be unpredictable. Your legal representation shouldn’t be.