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At Lipsig, Freund & Wisell, PLLC, our New York City personal injury attorneys have been fighting for accident victims for decades—delivering proven results and dedicated legal representation in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.

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Are Slips and Falls More Common in a Specific Season in NYC?

March 10, 2026

| Slip and Fall Accidents

In NYC, we are lucky enough to experience all four seasons, each bringing something special to the city. Slip-and-fall accidents can happen at any time of the year, but certain seasons in our city bring higher risks. Weather conditions, lighting changes, and building maintenance issues can all affect how frequently these accidents occur.

In a busy city like New York, property owners must address seasonal hazards quickly. When dangerous conditions are left unattended, pedestrians and visitors may suffer serious injuries. At Lipsig, Freund & Wisell, our attorneys regularly handle cases involving unsafe premises through our NYC slip and fall accident practice. Understanding when and why these accidents happen can help injured victims recognize when negligence may have played a role.

Most Slips-and-Falls Happen in the Winter

Winter weather creates some of the most hazardous walking conditions in New York City. Snow, ice, and freezing rain can quickly turn sidewalks and entrances into dangerous surfaces. Public health research has found that slip-and-fall injuries increase during freezing-temperature months.

In winter, common slip hazards include:

Property owners must clear snow and ice within a reasonable period of time. When they fail to do so, residents, visitors, and pedestrians may be placed at risk.

Spring and Summer Bring Different Slip Hazards

Although winter receives the most attention, slip-and-fall accidents can occur during warmer months as well. Rainstorms can leave floors wet in stores, office buildings, and apartment complexes. Outdoor walkways may also become slippery when drainage systems fail. Common warm-weather hazards include:

These conditions can appear suddenly, but property owners are still responsible for addressing them quickly.

Fall Season Increases Risk in Unexpected Ways

Autumn introduces a different set of risks. Falling leaves can accumulate on sidewalks and stairs, creating slippery surfaces when wet. Shorter daylight hours may also make hazards harder to see. Dimly lit entrances, stairways, parking areas increase the likelihood of a fall. Building owners should ensure proper lighting and remove debris from walkways to reduce these risks.

Proving Liability in Seasonal Slip-and-Fall Cases

In any slip and fall case, the key legal issue is whether the property owner failed to maintain reasonably safe conditions. Evidence may include:

These records can help demonstrate how long the hazard existed and whether the property owner had sufficient time to address it.

Slip-and-fall injuries can lead to significant medical expenses, time away from work, and long recovery periods. If you were injured in a slip and fall accident in New York City, Lipsig, Freund, & Wisell can help you understand your legal options. Call (212) 285-3300 or use our contact form to schedule a consultation.