New York City Sidewalk Fall Injury Lawyer

New York City has more than 12,000 miles of sidewalks. Countless locals, workers, and tourists traverse them every day. Unfortunately, not all of those sidewalks are safe. People in NYC often suffer serious injuries due to broken concrete slabs, uneven surfaces, holes and cracks, and ice patches on sidewalks.

The experienced New York City sidewalk fall injury lawyers at David Resnick & Associates, P.C., proudly protect the rights of injured New Yorkers in slip and fall accidents. We can help you hold the at-fault party accountable after a sidewalk fall impacts your daily life and finances. Contact us today to learn more.

What Should You Do If You Are Injured in a Fall on a NYC Sidewalk?

You may feel overwhelmed and confused after a sidewalk fall injury. However, what you do next could make a difference in the outcome of your slip and fall claim. The following are steps we believe you should take:

  • Seek prompt medical attention – See a doctor right away. Injuries like concussions or internal bleeding may not show symptoms at first. Also, insurers may use delayed medical care against you when pursuing your claim.
  • Document the hazard – Take photos and videos of the dangerous condition that caused your fall. Ice can melt, obstacles can be moved, and hazards can be fixed once the property owner learns of the incident. Try to capture the scene exactly as it was when you got hurt.
  • Collect witness information – Anyone who saw the incident may have information supporting your claim. Collect their contact information.
  • Report the incident – Notify the property owner or manager of the nearest property. Ask them to create a written report and request a copy of it.
  • Contact David Resnick & Associates, P.C. – A skilled New York City sidewalk fall injury lawyer at our law firm can help you determine who was responsible and lead you through the process of holding them accountable.

Who Is Responsible for Maintaining Sidewalks In New York City?

Under New York City law, property owners are responsible for maintaining the sidewalks outside their property. These responsibilities include removing snow and ice, repairing cracks and uneven slabs, and keeping the area free of dangerous obstructions. If they fail to meet these obligations, they may bear responsibility for any damage or injury they cause in a premises liability claim.

However, when a sidewalk is adjacent to a city-owned property, such as a public park or municipal building, the City of New York may bear responsibility for sidewalk fall injuries. Municipal liability claims against the city follow special notice and filing rules, including a strict 90-day notice of claim deadline, making it crucial to act swiftly and contact a slip and fall lawyer.

What Are Common Causes of NYC Sidewalk Falls?

New York’s sidewalks endure heavy use and harsh weather, leading to many hazards that can cause falls. Some common hazards include:

  • Broken or uneven sidewalk, or sunken concrete slabs
  • Loose gravel, debris, or other obstructions left on walkways
  • Snow and ice buildup
  • Spilled liquids, garbage, wet leaves, and other slippery conditions
  • Poor lighting makes hazards difficult to see.

You should never pay the price for someone else’s negligence. Our skilled slip and fall lawyers will investigate the accident to determine how it happened and who caused it, and we can build a compelling case for holding them accountable.

What Injuries Happen in New York City Sidewalk Fall Accidents?

Sidewalk falls are unpredictable, and they can result in a range of serious injuries. Some of the most common injuries our slip and fall attorneys see include:

  • Torn ligaments and soft tissue damage
  • Fractures and broken bones
  • Back and neck injuries
  • Cuts and lacerations
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).

Even injuries considered “minor” can cause significant distress, including time off work, medical bills, and mental health struggles. Your personal injury attorney at David Resnick & Associates, P.C., can work with medical professionals to assess the actual impact of your injuries on your life and finances and calculate your maximum compensation.

Who Could Be Held Responsible for a NYC Sidewalk Fall?

Multiple parties can face liability in a sidewalk slip and fall lawsuit or claim. Some of the most common liable parties include:

  • Private property owners
  • Commercial landlords or tenants
  • Contractors or maintenance companies
  • The City of New York (municipal liability).

Our attorneys can review maintenance records, snow and ice removal records, city inspection reports, and witness statements to identify all potentially liable parties and work hard as we seek to maximize your recovery.

Can Owners of NYC Properties Also Be Liable for Falls on Their Sidewalks?

Under New York City’s “sidewalk rules,” property owners must maintain the sidewalks adjacent to their property. So, anyone injured in a slip and fall on those sidewalks may be entitled to compensation under premises liability laws.

Premises liability laws hold property owners legally responsible for maintaining reasonably safe premises for all legal visitors. They may face liability in a personal injury claim when they fail to meet those legal responsibilities.

What Compensation Is Available for a NYC Sidewalk Fall Accident?

Damages for a sidewalk fall accident in New York City can cover financial losses, the physical and emotional effects, and your injuries. Your attorney will likely seek money for damages such as the following:

  • Current and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
  • Property damage
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life.

Is There a Time Limit for Filing a NYC Sidewalk Fall Claim?

Under New York law, you typically have three years from the date of the injury to file a sidewalk fall accident lawsuit. However, if the defendant is a government entity, you have 90 days to file a notice of your claim, and you must file the lawsuit within a year and 90 days from the date the accident occurred. Missing these deadlines can mean losing your right to recover the compensation you deserve.

Contact a New York City Sidewalk Accident Near You

If you suffered injuries in a sidewalk accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you need a skilled attorney to protect your rights. The slip and fall accident lawyers of David Resnick & Associates, P.C., have protected the rights of injured New Yorkers since 1998. Over nearly three decades, we’ve recovered over $180 million in settlements and verdicts on their behalf. We’re ready to fight for the accountability and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for your free consultation.