Winter around here is no joke. One day, it’s cold but manageable, and the next, you’re slipping on black ice, your car won’t start, and some guy in a pickup just skidded through a red light.
From Philly to the burbs, South Jersey, and out toward the Lehigh Valley, we all know how brutal winter can be. And when the roads get bad and the sidewalks turn into ice rinks, accidents happen. If you end up on the injury list, knowing your rights could make all the difference.
The Biggest Winter Weather Hazards (And Who’s Responsible)
1. Winter Car Accidents & Road Rage on Ice
We’ve all seen it:
- That one driver who thinks their SUV is invincible and speeds past everyone on I-95—only to wipe out 30 seconds later.
- Cars sliding through stop signs because someone didn’t salt the road properly.
- Pile-ups on Roosevelt Blvd, the Schuylkill, or 295 when black ice turns the morning commute into a nightmare.
Who’s at fault?
- Drivers must adjust to conditions—if someone was going too fast for the weather and hit you, they could be liable.
- Cities and townships are responsible for keeping public roads safe. If poor plowing or untreated ice caused the crash, there may be a case.
- Property owners (even businesses) have to keep parking lots safe—if you get hit because a lot wasn’t plowed or salted, they may be responsible.
Worst-Case Scenario: Someone skids into your car at an intersection. Even if “it was the ice,” they may still be responsible for damages.
2. Sidewalk Slip-and-Falls (A Philly Special)
It happens every year. You’re walking to Someone, minding your business, and BOOM—next thing you know, you’re on the ground, wondering what just happened.
Sidewalk covered in ice? Someone should’ve salted it.
Supermarket parking lot a frozen mess? That’s on them.
Steps outside a business still covered in snow? They may be responsible.
Who’s at fault?
Homeowners & landlords are required to clear sidewalks in most cities.
Businesses must keep their property safe for customers.
Property managers of apartments, shopping centers, or office buildings must prevent icy hazards.
Worst-Case Scenario: You fall, break a wrist, and need surgery—but no one wants to take responsibility.
3. Work Injuries from Snow & Ice
Some people get to work from home when the roads are bad. Others? Not so lucky.
• Delivery drivers slipping on untreated sidewalks.
• Construction workers dealing with icy scaffolding.
• Nurses and healthcare workers falling in hospital parking lots.
Who’s at fault?
If you’re injured on the job, workers’ comp should cover you—but getting approved isn’t always easy.
If a third party (like a property owner) caused the unsafe conditions, you may have a separate claim beyond workers’ comp.
Worst-Case Scenario: You get hurt at work, your claim gets denied, and now you’re out of work with medical bills piling up.
What to Do If You’re Injured in a Winter Weather Accident
If you wipe out on ice, get hit by a reckless driver, or get injured at work, here’s what to do:
- Take photos & video – Snow and ice melt fast, so document everything.
- Get medical help – Even if you think you’re fine, hidden injuries can show up later.
- Report it – Tell the business owner, landlord, or your employer right away.
- Talk to a lawyer before the insurance company – They’ll try to lowball you—we won’t.
Bottom line: If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you have legal rights.
Need Backup? We’ve Got You.
At the Law Offices of Eric A. Shore, we help people who’ve been injured in winter weather accidents—whether it’s a bad fall, a car wreck, or an on-the-job injury.
Call 1-800-CANT-WORK
Email contact@ericshore.com
Visit www.1800CantWork.com
