The Most Frequent Types of Accidents in New Jersey Winters | Ways You Can Stay Safe
Statistics consistently show that the number of personal injury claims filed in New Jersey goes up when the weather gets cold. Why does this happen? What are the most common types of accidents in winter weather conditions? What can you do to reduce the risk of an injury this winter?
Personal Injuries Involving Snow or Ice
It should come as no surprise that the presence of snow and ice on roadways, sidewalks, and other thoroughfares is the single biggest contributing factor to the increase in personal injury claims in the winter:
- Motor vehicle accident rates generally increase in inclement winter weather, as motorists experience greater difficulty turning or braking behind the wheel. Additionally, many motorists fail to properly remove snow from their vehicles, or head out before their windows are defrosted, limiting their visibility. Studies also show that accidents involving drunk drivers are more common in the winter. The most common injury in most motor vehicle accidents is whiplash, where your head or neck snaps violently back and forth, causing connective tissue damage in your neck and shoulders, and also potentially causing a traumatic brain injury.
In New Jersey, a person injured in a motor vehicle accident in snowy or icy conditions can never bring a lawsuit against a municipality for negligence or carelessness in plowing or maintaining the roads. Other motorists can, however, be sued for failure to adapt their driving to the inclement weather.
- The accumulation of snow, ice, or sleet on residential or commercial property dramatically increases the likelihood of a slip-and-fall. The injury most commonly associated with a slip-and-fall is some type of fracture (often a hip, but arm and elbow fractures are also common). Falls are also a common cause of traumatic brain injury.
In 2021, the New Jersey Supreme Court issued a ruling clarifying the potential liability of property owners for slip-and-falls in snowy weather. Known as the “ongoing storm rule,” it holds that property owners do not have a duty to remove snow or ice while a storm is still in process but only need to do so once the storm is over.
Steps You Can Take To Minimize the Risk of an Accident This Winter
Of course, the best way to stay safe is to stay off the roads when the weather makes travel difficult. When you do head out in snow or ice, make certain you’ve properly winterized your car with good tires and brakes and a heater/defrost unit that works. Always remove all snow or ice from your car before you get on the road, making certain the windshield, hood, and roof are clean. And give yourself a little extra time—too many accidents happen when you’re in a hurry.
As a pedestrian in winter weather, it’s important that you wear shoes or boots that maximize traction. Pay particular attention when entering or exiting a store or house. More often than not, that’s where the worst buildup of ice or snow is located.
Contact the Law Office of Howard D. Popper
At the law office of Howard D. Popper, we can help protect your rights. For a free initial consultation to discuss your options after any type of personal injury, contact our office online or call 973-993-8787 to set up an appointment. We have offices in Morristown and Newton.
We handle all personal injury claims on a contingent-fee basis. You won’t pay any attorney fees unless we recover damages for your losses.