With plummeting temperatures, snow-covered sidewalks, parking lots, and driveways across New Jersey have become treacherous, turning a simple walk or routine outing into a difficult—and potentially dangerous—journey. It’s no surprise that slippery surfaces create an increased risk of falling, which can result in injuries ranging from minor bruises to serious fractures. In many cases, slip and fall accidents on ice can be prevented if property owners take the necessary precautions.

As New Jersey residents continue to brace themselves for snow and ice in the coming days, property owners must understand that it is their fundamental duty to ensure the safety and well-being of customers, employees, and visitors. If you've recently experienced a slip and fall on ice in New Jersey, taking immediate and appropriate actions to protect your health, as well as your legal rights, is essential. For those who have questions about how to file a slip and fall case in New Jersey, speaking with an experienced NJ slip and fall attorney is the first step to understanding your rights.

Where Do Most Slips and Falls Happen?

In New Jersey, slip-and-fall accidents on ice and snow tend to occur in locations susceptible to winter weather conditions. While these accidents can happen virtually anywhere, some areas are ubiquitous hotspots due to factors like foot traffic, weather patterns, and maintenance practices.

Sidewalks

Sidewalks are a frequent site of slip and fall accidents in New Jersey during the winter. The accumulation of snow and ice and inadequate maintenance can create treacherous conditions for pedestrians.

Parking Lots

Parking lots, whether at shopping centers, offices, or residential complexes, are notorious for icy patches during the winter months. These areas see a volume of high vehicle and foot traffic, making them prone to accidents. Parking lots can also be difficult to adequately clear, especially if some motorists leave their cars parked overnight.

Entrances and Exits

The areas surrounding building entrances and exits are susceptible to icy conditions. Water from melted snow and ice often accumulates at entrances and exits because people track the water in as they enter from outside. If a business doesn’t put down a carpet or slip-resistant flooring, this can greatly increase the risk of falling.

Stairs and Ramps

Both indoor and outdoor stairs and ramps are danger zones during icy and snowy weather. Each step can become a potential slip hazard, and handrails don’t always offer adequate support.

Driveways

Residential driveways and shared driveways within neighborhoods can be hazardous. These areas may receive less attention in terms of snow removal and de-icing than main roads.

Public Transportation Stops and Stations

Bus stops, train platforms, and transit stations can become icy and dangerous due to the high volume of commuters. Limited maintenance and crowded conditions contribute to slips and falls.

Retail Stores and Shopping Center

Entryways and parking lots of retail stores and shopping centers can become icy and treacherous. Shoppers entering or exiting these locations are at risk if proper precautions are not taken.

Home Walkways

Residential walkways leading to homes are common for slips and falls in neighborhoods. Homeowners are responsible for ensuring the safety of their walkways.

Crosswalks

Pedestrian crosswalks at intersections can become icy, making it hazardous for pedestrians to cross streets safely.

Outdoor Seating Areas

Restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating may not always clear snow and ice from these areas, creating a hazard for patrons.

Schools and Educational Institutions

School campuses and educational institutions can experience slips and falls, especially where students and staff gather, such as entrances, parking lots, and walkways.

In New Jersey, proactive maintenance, prompt snow and ice removal, and appropriate de-icing materials in these common locations are key to preventing slip-and-fall accidents on ice and snow.

Who Has to Pay for Damages after Falling on Ice?

When businesses fail to take icy forecasts seriously, they expose themselves to various consequences, including an increased risk of slip-and-fall accidents and potential legal action. Responsibility for paying for damages after a fall on ice depends on several factors, including the circumstances of the incident and the parties involved. However, typically, the following parties may be responsible for paying for damages after a slip and fall:

• Property owner,
• Government entities, or
• Insurance companies.

Often, for falls occurring on residential or commercial properties, it’s the owner’s insurance company that is ultimately responsible for covering the victim’s accident-related expenses. To determine who is responsible for paying damages after a fall on ice in New Jersey, it's crucial to assess the specific circumstances of the incident and consult with a personal injury attorney.

What Happens if I Slip on Black Ice in NJ?

If you slip on black ice in New Jersey, several factors come into play to determine liability and responsibility. Black ice, which is transparent and nearly invisible, presents a unique challenge when assigning responsibility. However, property owners are generally responsible for maintaining their premises and ensuring they are safe for visitors. This includes taking precautions to address icy conditions, such as spreading salt or another type of ice melt.

If you slip on black ice in a parking lot, sidewalk, or other property, the property owner may be liable if they were negligent in addressing the hazardous conditions. If the slip and fall occurs on a public road, sidewalk, or other property maintained by a government entity, such as a city or county, the responsibility may shift to them. However, government entities often have certain legal immunities and specific procedures for filing claims, making pursuing a case more complex.

Can I Sue if I Slip on Ice at a Closed Business?

Property owners have a duty to maintain safe premises, even when their business is closed. If the owner fails to appropriately address the icy conditions, you may have a basis for a claim. However, ultimately, the viability of a lawsuit for a slip and fall on ice at a closed business in New Jersey depends on the unique details of your situation. One of the key considerations is whether the business had any reason to know about the icy conditions.

Can I Sue if I Slipped on Ice in Front of a Neighbor's House?

Slipping on ice in front of a neighbor's house in New Jersey can create some uncomfortable situations due to the potential for a lawsuit. Although it may be awkward to approach a neighbor after a slip and fall on their property, an attorney can help you tackle this situation with tact and help you minimize the negative consequences. For example, property owners often have homeowner's insurance policies. These policies typically cover financial liability for injuries on the owner’s property, including those related to slip and fall accidents. When homeowners’ insurance covers a victim’s expenses, the homeowner doesn’t usually need to pay anything out of pocket.

Am I at Fault for Slipping and Falling on Ice?

In New Jersey, liability for slip and fall accidents on ice can depend on various factors, including the property owner's responsibility, the circumstances of the incident, and the injured party's actions. Property owners have a duty to maintain safe premises and address hazardous conditions like icy sidewalks or parking lots. If the property owner fails to take reasonable steps to address the ice, they may be held liable for injuries.

However, New Jersey also follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that if your own negligence contributed to your injuries, your recovery may be reduced or even barred. A classic example of this is a person who leaves a bar intoxicated and slips and falls on an icy patch of pavement. In this situation, the bar owner would likely argue that the victim’s inebriated state prevented them from noticing the ice. Of course, the victim could respond by showing that the ice was not noticeable and that any impairment on their part didn’t play a role in their fall.