Breaking the Ice; New York’s Law on Clearing Icy Sidewalks

Living and working in Ohio, we have learned to use extra caution when there are icy conditions. Even with extra caution, walking on ice can be dangerous. Roughly 1% to 5% of falls result in a serious fracture, according to the Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery and it is likely that ice related falls are worse than that. In fact, over 20% of US private industries injuries stem from slip and fall accidents.

19 Action News (a Cleveland news company) recently highlighted the dangers of ice on sidewalks. Most of 19 Action News’ advice falls into two categories; walk careful in proper footwear and to remove ice that creates the danger.

In New York, lawmakers have attempted to define the extra care that is required in clearing the sidewalks.  The New York Administrative Code indicates liability for snow and ice typically begins “four hours after the snow ceases to fall.” There are two main exceptions at play. First, there is an exception for certain nighttime hours (9:00 PM to 7:00 AM). Second, there is an exception if the removal would damage the pavement or the weather does not permit its removal.  If you live or work in New York, you better have your shovel handy.

For More Information:

The National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health detailed the likelihood of injuries for age, profession, gender and a variety of other factors.

 

Authored by Sarah Perez & Chad Trownson