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Winter in Westchester County, NY and throughout New York City brings icy mornings, snow-covered parkways, and dangerous driving conditions. From the Hutchinson River Parkway to I-287, the Taconic State Parkway, and busy streets in White Plains, Yonkers, Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx, most drivers know to slow down for black ice.
But there’s another serious hazard many motorists overlook: snow and ice left on top of vehicles.
The Hidden Danger of Snow on Car Roofs
When snow or packed ice is left on a vehicle’s roof, hood, or trunk, it can break loose while driving. At highway speeds, wind pressure can lift ice sheets off like a sail — turning them into dangerous airborne projectiles.
A chunk of ice flying off a moving SUV or semi-truck can:
- Shatter a windshield
- Blind a driver instantly
- Cause a chain-reaction crash
- Injure passengers with flying glass
- Lead to catastrophic or fatal injuries
On elevated trucks and commercial vehicles traveling through the Cross Bronx Expressway or Major Deegan, falling ice is even more dangerous because of the height and force involved.
As temperatures rise after a storm, ice loosens — making late-morning and afternoon commutes especially hazardous.
Can Drivers Be Held Responsible?
Yes. Under New York law, drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely. That includes clearing snow and ice before driving.
If snow or ice flies off a vehicle and causes injury or property damage, the responsible driver may be held liable. Compensation typically comes from the driver’s insurance policy — but proving fault requires investigation and legal strategy.
These cases often involve:
- Negligence claims
- Witness testimony
- Dashcam footage
- Accident reconstruction
- Insurance company disputes
Insurance carriers frequently try to minimize payouts by arguing that weather — not the driver — caused the crash. That’s where experienced legal representation becomes critical.
Why Experience Matters After a Winter Car Accident
For more than 35 years, The Law Offices of Norman Gershon has represented injured victims across the NYC metropolitan area. Norman is widely known as the “go-to” trial lawyer other attorneys call when a case is tough.
He has recovered tens of millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements, including:
- $16.5 million verdict in Betancourt v. NYCTA
- $3 million verdict in Carmona v. Esther Transportation Inc.
- $2.5 million verdict in Yurkovic v. Cepin
Clients consistently praise his courtroom skill and compassion. As one Queens client shared:
“He’s a beast in the courtroom… brilliant and relentless.”
What To Do If Ice from Another Vehicle Injured You
If you or a loved one was injured because another driver failed to clear snow or ice from their vehicle:
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Document damage and injuries
- Obtain witness information
- Contact an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible
Evidence can disappear quickly — especially in winter conditions.
Snowstorms are common in Westchester and NYC. Preventable injuries should not be.
If you’ve been hurt in a snow-related crash in White Plains, Yonkers, Manhattan, Queens, the Bronx, or surrounding areas, experienced trial representation can make all the difference.
The Law Offices of Norman Gershon
35 Years of Trial Experience.
Fighting for the full compensation you deserve.
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