Winter Weather Poses Challenge to Pedestrians

If you navigate the city on foot, it gives you a lot of freedom that drivers simply don’t have. It’s important, however, to pay careful attention to what winter weather means for you as a pedestrian. Further, it’s important to recognize that we’re all pedestrians from time to time – whether it’s walking from a parking ramp to our jobs or from the subway to wherever. When you’re hoofing it in the winter, it’s important to take pedestrian safety even more seriously. If someone else’s negligence leaves you injured as a pedestrian this winter, consult with an experienced NYC personal injury attorney.

Slippery Roadways

The snow, wind, and icy rain of winter often leave our roads slippery and far more dangerous to navigate. While drivers are responsible for driving in accordance with the condition of the roads, not all of them hit this mark. When city roads are slippery, you’re far more vulnerable – as a pedestrian – to being injured in a traffic accident.

Stores and Other Businesses

Traffic is not the only consideration for pedestrians facing winter weather. You’re also going to be walking into stores and other businesses, and slip and fall accidents are not uncommon. When businesses fail to accommodate for bad weather, it can lead to slippery – or otherwise treacherous – entryways. When the weather outside is frightful, keep in mind that even though businesses have a duty of care, not all live up to that duty, and it is in your best interest to be mindful of just how quickly entrances can become dangerously slippery.

Parking Lots, Sidewalks, and Crosswalks

Whether you’ve parked, have left the subway, or simply walk wherever you go, it’s important to pay careful attention to the sidewalks, parking lots, and crosswalks out there. Winter weather can bring slush, ice, rain, and more, and that can leave walkways extremely dicey. The best path forward is always to choose a pedestrian walkway whenever one is available. When you’re traversing a parking lot, assume the drivers in your midst don’t see you – even though the right of way is likely yours, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Stay Safe Out There

When you find yourself walking in the winter, it’s important to remember that not only are the roadways and walkways slippery, but visibility may also be reduced. Winter weather often means snow, rain, sleet, and/or fog – all of which decrease visibility. And if you’re walking at night, the visibility is diminished further. When you’re on foot, take the necessary precautions by following all pedestrian safety protocols, wearing a piece of outerwear that is bright and reflective; wearing well-fitting, supportive shoes with good traction; and generally keeping your wits about you (put your phone away and concentrate on arriving safely at your destination).

Consult with an Experienced NYC Personal Injury Attorney Today

Winter weather can lead to dangerous pedestrian accidents. If someone else’s negligence leaves you injured this winter, the formidable personal injury attorneys at Lipsig, Shapey, Manus & Moverman in New York City are committed to helping you obtain the compensation you need to make your fullest recovery. Our personal injury firm is one of the oldest and best established in the City, so please do not hesitate to contact us online or call us at 212-285-3300 for more information today.