Slipping and falling on a New York City sidewalk can be a traumatizing experience, especially for anyone who suffers injuries as a result. Lawsuits involving slip-and-fall accidents are common in New York City, but not everyone who falls on a sidewalk will be entitled to compensation. New York law is complicated when it comes to slip-and-fall cases, and specific factors must be met, including the precise location of the accident. If you've been injured in such an accident, the question that most likely is going through your mind is, "Can I sue?"
What Are Your Legal Options if You Slip and Fall on a Sidewalk in New York?
Can you sue if you slip and fall on a New York sidewalk? The short answer is yes. You can sue a property owner in New York City if you slip and fall on a sidewalk and suffer injuries. However, it is not automatic, and several factors will be considered before you can file such a case.
For instance, in some cases, the property owner you think is responsible for maintaining the sidewalk may not actually be legally accountable for your accident. Property liability ownership in NYC can be tricky, so it's best to have your case evaluated by an experienced personal injury attorney.
New York City considers different aspects when determining who is liable or responsible for accidents that occur on a sidewalk. Generally, the owners of the property that adjoins or borders the sidewalk are responsible for the sidewalk's maintenance, repairs, and safety. For example, if a consumer falls on a sidewalk in front of a store, the store owner may be held liable.
In many instances, the City of New York is responsible for the sidewalks in front of commercial buildings, multi-family apartment buildings of at least three units, and city-owned properties. An individual can only sue or file a claim in court against the city when the sidewalk damage is caused by ordinary negligence.
In other words, an individual may not sue the city if there was clearly visible damage on the sidewalk for weeks or months since the individual could have reasonably avoided that area.
What Should I Do if I Slip and Fall on a New York Sidewalk?
Filing a lawsuit following a slip-and-fall incident on a New York City sidewalk can be complicated. Liability regarding this issue can be murky, making it difficult to determine who is responsible for sidewalk safety. If you're in doubt, it's imperative to consult with a seasoned personal injury lawyer in New York City.
At Belushin Law Firm, P.C., our skilled lawyers will carefully review all evidence in your case and offer advice specific to your situation. Should it come to it, we'll represent you in court and make sure you and your loved ones receive the compensation you're entitled to. Trust us to make your recovery our top priority.
For more information about Belushin Law Firm, P.C., check out our reviews and case results.
Call us at (888) 918-9890 or contact us online today for a free consultation with our team of slip-and-fall injury lawyers in Brooklyn.