With the cold winter months and the wintry precipitation that comes along with them comes an increased risk of slipping and falling on the ice and slick surfaces. Even something as simple as going to get groceries or medications can turn dangerous if the sidewalks and other surfaces aren’t properly cleared.
As ice and snow build up on the sidewalks, they become hazardous to the disabled and elderly who must walk on them. One Brooklyn Councilman wants to hold property owners responsible for clearing the sidewalks. He said that he has seen several constituents slip and fall on the ice.
New York City Councilman David Greenfield says that the law now, which includes a $100 fine for not clearing sidewalks, doesn’t provide enough motivation for the owners to clear the sidewalks. Under his proposal, the city will clear sidewalks using temporary snow laborers if the owners fail to do so. The city would then charge them at least $250 for having to clear the sidewalks.
He says it would give the city more revenue and ice-free sidewalks. While the current law does include a fine, if the property owner doesn’t clear the sidewalk after being fined, the sidewalk will still be hazardous to pedestrians.
Slipping and falling on an icy sidewalk can lead to serious injuries. Those injuries can lead to significant medical bills and other financial impacts. If you have been injured by a slip and fall on an icy sidewalk, you might have the right to seek compensation for those injuries. Seeking the advice of a New York personal injury attorney with experience in premises liability might help you to learn your rights and responsibilities for seeking compensation.
Source: Epoch Times, “Brooklyn Councilman Wants Sidewalks Cleared, Owners Charged” Nicholas Zifcak, Feb. 18, 2014