Black Ice Slip and Fall Injuries
Black ice can be dangerous for cars and walking alike. As winter approaches, the chances of slipping on black ice increases. What makes black ice so dangerous is the fact that this type of ice is nearly invisible. This makes avoiding black ice difficult and can lead to unexpected accidents. If you experienced injuries after slipping and falling on black ice, you may be able to sue for significant compensation. Talk to a New York Personal Injury Lawyer to see what the next step is.
What You Should Know About Black Ice
The main difference between normal ice and black ice is that black ice blends into the ground and is close to impossible to see without examining the area carefully. This is because black ice forms in thin layers after sleet or melting and refreezing snow. Some of the most common places for black ice are on roads, bridges, parking lots, sidewalks, and driveways. Almost any kind of pavement can succumb to black ice freezing.
This leaves many people slipping and falling on black ice because they cannot see that the pathway is frozen over. When people know a pathway is covered in ice, they tend to walk with caution, but if people believe the pathway is normal, they will walk normally and increase their chances of slipping.
A good rule of thumb is to be extra cautious in the morning and at night because black ice tends to form the most during these times. When the sun comes out, the heat can melt the thin layers of black ice away.
Can I Sue if I Slip On Black Ice?
If you slipped in a parking lot or sidewalk on someone’s property and suffered injuries as a result, you may be able to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit. Filing a claim means the owner or place of business failed to place adequate warning signs and did not make attempts to make the walking area safer.
Depending on the severity of your injuries and the situation, you may be able to sue for compensatory damages and punitive damages. Compensatory damages cover medical expenses and lost wages. If your injuries were severe enough, you may also be eligible to receive compensation for pain and suffering or emotional distress.
Punitive damages can be rare because they are usually only awarded when excessive carelessness is involved.
Slip and Fall Lawyer in New York
Facing high medical expenses after slipping and falling at a trusted business or person’s home can be frustrating for anyone. Try talking to a Liverpool Slip and Fall Lawyer if this happened to you. A lawyer can help you find the evidence needed to prove negligence and sue for damages.
At Gattuso & Ciotoli, we offer four different areas of legal practice. Contact us at (315) 314-8000 for a free consultation today. You can find us in Central New York, Syracuse, Watertown, Binghamton, Syracuse, North Syracuse, Camillus, Liverpool, Cortland, and Auburn. Our goal is to help you earn the compensation you need to recover.