Levine & Slavit | January 30, 2026

Were you hurt in a motor vehicle accident due to snow and ice? Car accident liability in New York can be complex, but determining the at-fault party or parties matters should you decide to file a personal injury claim. Learn about evidence that may support your claim, how to seek compensation for your injuries, and more helpful information in this guide. 

Motorists Must Be Mindful of Winter Driving Hazards To Avoid Liability

Think about some of the common causes of car accidents. Distracted driving, poor road conditions, and speeding may lead to multi-vehicle collisions at any time of the year. But when you factor in winter hazards like snow and ice, car accident liability in New York could become more complex. 

Motorists may be found responsible for collisions if they don’t practice safe driving habits in hazardous conditions, such as when they are:

  • Speeding on snowy roadways
  • Following too close behind other cars 
  • Not using windshield wipers or headlights in poor visibility areas

Even failing to maintain one’s vehicle could lead to a collision. A driver may stay a safe distance away from others when there is black ice on the road. However, if they’re aware they have faulty brakes but don’t maintain the vehicle, they could rear-end another motorist when they try to abruptly stop. 

Municipalities May Be Responsible for Car Accident Injuries

Imagine you’re driving as safely as you can, but the roadway is covered in snow and ice from a recent storm. Despite your efforts to remain safe, you end up colliding with another vehicle or object. Seek medical treatment for any injuries, and consult a car accident lawyer right away to discuss the case. 

A government entity may be responsible for your injuries by failing to clear snow and ice within a reasonable amount of time after a storm. Municipalities have various road maintenance obligations, from snow removal to pothole repairs. You may be able to hold your local municipality liable, depending on the circumstances.

Filing a claim against a government entity requires prompt notice. Don’t delay meeting with a lawyer, as you have a limited filing window. 

Property Owners Could Hold Snow and Ice Car Accident Liability in New York

Suppose you pull into an ice-covered parking lot and the slippery surface causes you to lose control of your vehicle. You end up colliding with another vehicle, but are you at fault? In cases like these, a property owner’s responsibility comes into question. 

Just as with slip-and-fall liability, property owners could be at fault if they don’t take reasonable care to avoid foreseeable harm. If a thick sheet of ice covers their property, the property owner could try to keep others safe by putting ice melt over the surface or posting warning signs. The owner may not be considered negligent if they take steps like these to prevent harm. 

Comparative negligence could apply in any case. According to this rule, the plaintiff will see their potential judgment payout reduced based on their fault percentage. 

Review Your Case With a Qualified New York Car Accident Attorney

If you’re hurt in a collision involving snow and ice, discuss car accident liability in New York with a seasoned attorney. Levine & Slavit, PLLC, is a respected firm with over 50 years of experience. Our legal professionals help clients file a wide range of personal injury lawsuits, including slip-and-fall cases and car accident claims. 

Turn to us if you’re interested in seeking compensation for your injury. We can review your case and explore your options. Connect with us online or call our office at (917) 725-7133 to schedule a free consultation.