Is It Mandatory to Snow Shovel Sidewalks in Manhattan?

After slipping and falling on a snowy sidewalk in Manhattan, you may wonder why no one bothered to clear away this obvious hazard. Are property owners and business owners legally obligated to clear away snow and ice? Does the sidewalk count as private property, or is it the responsibility of the City? These are important questions – especially if you plan to file a slip and fall lawsuit in Manhattan.

Property Owners May Only Have Four Hours to Clear Away Snow 

New York City enforces strict laws regarding snow removal. Those who fail to remove snow and ice in a timely manner may face fines of $150. For subsequent offenses, the fines can be as high as $330.

The exact laws regarding snow removal are somewhat complex. First, it is important to understand that property owners are only required to start clearing their sidewalks once the snowfall stops. If snow is still falling, they can wait until the weather clears up before shoveling it away. The logic here is that it’s pointless to begin shoveling if more snow will simply fill up the sidewalk as soon as you’re finished.

As soon as the snowfall stops, property owners are legally required to get started. If snow stops falling between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM, property owners must clear their sidewalks within just four hours.

However, there is slightly more leniency if snow stops falling overnight. In this situation, property owners must clear their sidewalks by 11:00 AM the next day. With such short time limits, most property owners rely on private companies to clear away snow. These companies also tend to salt sidewalks ahead of time to limit ice and snow formation.

Most Sidewalks Are Not the City’s Responsibility 

The casual observer might assume that the sidewalks in Manhattan “belong to the City.” As such, you might assume that the City is responsible for any injuries you suffer while walking the streets. However, this is not the case. The properties adjacent to the sidewalks are responsible for clearing away snow – and these premises technically go all the way to the street.

Key Takeaways 

• Sidewalks fall within the premises of private properties and businesses
• Owners are legally required to clear snow within just a few hours
• New York often sees heavy snowfall during the winter months.

Can a Slip and Fall Lawyer in Manhattan Help? 

If you slipped and fell on a snowy sidewalk, a premises liability lawyer in Manhattan may be able to help. There is virtually no excuse for allowing snow to sit on sidewalks for extended periods, and owners may face serious consequences if they fail to get their act together. While New York has strict laws about snow removal, Cohan Law, PLLC can help you determine whether a property owner might be liable for your injuries. Reach out today to learn more.

Sources: 

yahoo.com/news/could-fined-not-shoveling-sidewalk-140236548.html

natlawreview.com/article/snowed-everything-you-need-know-about-snow-removal-nyc