Philadelphia winters often see fluctuating temperatures that can quickly turn snow to ice, creating treacherous walking and driving conditions. Even with city ordinances requiring timely snow and ice removal, untreated areas remain a common cause of injuries. The cold weather also poses direct health risks for those exposed to extreme conditions for extended periods.
By taking precautions and staying informed about safety and liability, you can reduce the risk of injuries and protect your rights if an accident does happen. Winter weather may be unpredictable, but your safety doesn’t have to be.
Common Winter Weather-Related Injuries
One of the most frequent winter injuries involves slipping and falling on icy or snowy surfaces.
- Hazardous Conditions: Untreated sidewalks, parking lots, and walkways become treacherous when covered with ice or snow. Black ice, which is nearly invisible, poses an even greater risk.
- Types of Injuries: Slip and fall accidents often result in fractures, sprains, concussions, or back injuries. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to severe falls that can lead to long-term mobility issues.
- Contributing Factors: Property owners who fail to clear walkways or apply salt and sand to icy areas may be held liable for injuries that occur on their premises.
Winter weather significantly increases the risk of vehicle collisions.
- Driving Hazards:
- Black Ice: A thin layer of ice on the road that is almost impossible to see, causing vehicles to lose traction suddenly.
- Snow-Covered Roads: Reduced grip and braking ability lead to a higher likelihood of accidents.
- Poor Visibility: Snowstorms, freezing rain, and fog can make it difficult for drivers to see the road, other vehicles, and pedestrians.
- Common Injuries: Accidents in winter often result in whiplash, broken bones, and other serious injuries for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can have serious consequences, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and the homeless.
- Frostbite: This occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze, often affecting fingers, toes, ears, and noses. Severe cases can lead to permanent tissue damage or even amputation.
- Hypothermia: Extended exposure to cold temperatures can cause the body’s core temperature to drop dangerously low, leading to confusion, fatigue, and, in severe cases, death.
- Prevention: Dressing in layers, wearing insulated gloves and boots, and limiting time outdoors during extreme weather are crucial for avoiding these conditions.
Falling Objects
Snow and ice accumulating on buildings, trees, and other structures pose a less obvious but equally dangerous risk.
- Common Scenarios: Sheets of ice or heavy snow can fall from rooftops, overhangs, or tree branches, especially during melting cycles.
- Types of Injuries: These incidents can result in head trauma, neck injuries, or bruising, depending on the size and weight of the falling object.
- Liability: Property owners are responsible for removing overhanging snow and ice that could pose a danger to pedestrians.
Tips for Staying Safe During Winter in Philadelphia
Preventing Slip and Falls
Icy sidewalks, snowy walkways, and untreated surfaces can quickly lead to dangerous falls. Here’s how to protect yourself:
- Wear Proper Footwear: Opt for boots or shoes with good traction and non-slip soles. Avoid smooth-soled footwear that offers little grip on icy surfaces.
- Use Handrails: When navigating stairs or steep areas, always use handrails for extra stability. They can prevent a fall even if your foot slips.
- Avoid Untreated Surfaces: Stick to cleared walkways and avoid shortcuts over areas that may not have been treated with salt or sand.
Safe Winter Driving
Driving in winter weather requires extra care to avoid accidents caused by snow, ice, or reduced visibility.
- Check Your Tires: Ensure your tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread to provide traction on slippery roads.
- Drive Slowly: Reduce your speed and allow extra time to brake. Snow and ice can double or triple the distance required to stop your vehicle safely.
- Maintain a Safe Distance: Increase the following distance between your car and others to avoid collisions if sudden stops are needed.
- Keep an Emergency Kit: Prepare for unexpected situations by carrying an emergency kit in your car. Include essentials like blankets, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, a phone charger, and a first-aid kit.
Dressing for the Weather
Proper clothing can prevent hypothermia and frostbite during cold weather.
- Wear Layers: Dressing in layers helps trap heat and allows you to adjust your clothing to stay comfortable.
- Choose Waterproof Outerwear: A waterproof coat and boots can protect you from wet snow and slush, keeping you warm and dry.
- Insulated Accessories: Don’t forget hats, gloves, and scarves. Insulated gloves and hats are especially important for protecting extremities from frostbite.
Be Aware of Falling Snow and Ice
Snow and ice don’t just pose a risk on the ground—they can fall from above and cause serious injuries.
- Watch for Overhangs: Avoid walking directly beneath building overhangs or ledges where snow or ice might accumulate and fall.
- Stay Clear of Trees: Be cautious around large trees, especially during or after heavy snowfall, as branches can break under the weight.
Legal Responsibilities in Winter Weather
Property Owner Responsibilities
In Philadelphia, property owners are legally required to keep sidewalks and walkways safe for pedestrians during winter months.
- Philadelphia Ordinances:
- Property owners must clear snow and ice from sidewalks within six hours after the snowfall has stopped. If the snow ends overnight, they must complete the task by the morning.
- This requirement ensures that public walkways are navigable and safe for pedestrians.
- Liability for Untreated Areas:
- If a property owner fails to clear snow or ice within the specified timeframe and someone is injured as a result, they may be held liable.
- Examples include slip and fall accidents on icy sidewalks, untreated stairways, or unplowed parking lots.
- Landlords and business owners have additional obligations to maintain safety on their premises for tenants, customers, and visitors.
Driver Responsibilities
Winter driving conditions demand heightened caution from drivers to prevent accidents.
- Driving Safely in Winter:
- Drivers are legally obligated to adjust their speed and behavior based on road conditions. For example, speeding on icy or snow-covered roads can be deemed negligent.
- Clearing snow and ice from windshields, windows, and roofs is also essential. Failure to do so can obstruct visibility or cause snow and ice to fly off, creating hazards for other drivers.
- Liability in Winter Accidents:
- Drivers who fail to exercise caution or adjust to icy roads can be held liable for collisions. Examples include:
- Rear-ending another vehicle due to insufficient braking distance.
- Losing control on black ice due to speeding or aggressive driving.
Government and Municipal Liability
City and municipal agencies also have responsibilities to ensure public safety during winter weather.
- Maintaining Public Spaces:
- Municipalities are responsible for clearing snow and ice from public roads, sidewalks, parks, and other common areas.
- Failure to address hazardous conditions in a timely manner can lead to accidents and potential liability for the government.
- Examples of Municipal Liability:
- Accidents caused by untreated public sidewalks or roadways.
- Injuries resulting from ice patches in public parks or near transit stations.
- Poorly maintained or inadequate lighting on public walkways that exacerbate winter hazards.
If you’ve been injured in a winter weather-related accident in Philadelphia, Pallante Law is here to help.
Don’t let a winter accident derail your life without taking action. Contact Pallante Law today to schedule a free consultation and learn about your legal options. John D. Pallante is here to evaluate your case, answer your questions, and guide you through every step of the process.
Take the first step toward justice and recovery. Call Pallante Law now and let us advocate for your rights in the aftermath of a winter accident.
