As Hudson Valley residents face another summer of extreme heat, more and more people are getting hurt in unexpected places. From buckled sidewalks to slippery store entrances caused by condensation, summer is bringing a wave of preventable injuries that many don’t realize could involve legal responsibility.
While high temperatures can create difficult conditions, property owners are still required by law to keep their premises reasonably safe. If someone is harmed because of a hazard that was ignored or improperly addressed, the property owner may be held responsible under New York law.
Common Summer Hazards That Can Cause Harm
Slip and fall injuries aren’t just a winter problem. Hot weather brings its own set of challenges:
- Condensation near entrances from A/C units or freezer cases
- Heaved or uneven sidewalks due to heat-related ground expansion
- Neglected pool decks, patios, or walkways that become slick or unstable
- Cracked or poorly maintained outdoor stairs on residential or commercial properties
In July 2025, much of the Hudson Valley was under extreme heat advisories (National Weather Service), increasing the likelihood of these hazardous conditions.
When Property Owners Are Responsible
New York State law requires that property owners, landlords, and business operators maintain safe conditions for visitors. This includes:
- Conducting regular inspections
- Addressing known safety issues in a timely manner
- Providing proper warnings or signage when surfaces are wet or damaged
If a person is injured because of a condition that was known—or should have been known—and no action was taken, legal liability may apply.
You may have a valid personal injury claim if:
- A dangerous condition was present and left unaddressed
- There is evidence the property owner knew (or should have known) about the issue
- Your injury resulted in medical expenses, missed work, or other losses
What to Do If You’re Hurt
If you or someone you care about suffers a slip and fall this summer—whether at a business, rental property, or on public grounds—take these important steps:
- Seek medical attention right away and keep detailed records of your treatment.
- Take photos or videos of the location, focusing on what caused your fall.
- File a report with the property manager or business and request a copy.
- Keep the shoes and clothing you were wearing as they may support your claim.
- Contact a qualified personal injury attorney who can guide you through your rights and options.
Don’t let someone else’s negligence go unchecked just because the weather is extreme. Hot weather doesn’t cancel out property owners’ obligations.
Serving the Hudson Valley with Trusted Legal Guidance
At Finkelstein & Partners, LLP we help clients throughout Albany, Westchester, Rockland, Dutchess, Ulster, and Orange Counties pursue fair compensation when they’ve been injured due to unsafe property conditions—regardless of the season. If you’ve been hurt due to someone else’s failure to maintain a safe environment, we’re here to help.
Contact us for a free consultation and let’s talk about your next steps.