It can happen in an instant. You’re walking down the street, maybe heading to work, maybe running errands, and suddenly, your foot catches on an uneven slab of sidewalk. You stumble, fall hard, and before you know it, you’re nursing a serious injury. In NYC, tripping over a poorly maintained sidewalk is more common than you might think. If you’ve been injured due to a trip and fall on a sidewalk, our firm is here to help. Read on and reach out to a Bronx slip and fall lawyer from the Law Office of Richard M. Kenny to learn more.
Who Is Liable for an Uneven Sidewalk in NYC?
In New York City, sidewalk maintenance isn’t always the city’s responsibility. In fact, the law often places that burden on the property owner adjacent to the sidewalk. That means if you were injured because of a cracked, raised, or otherwise dangerous section of sidewalk, the liable party could be a private property owner, a commercial business, or even a residential landlord–not necessarily the city itself.
However, there are exceptions. For example, if the sidewalk is in front of a one-, two-, or three-family home that is owner-occupied and used exclusively for residential purposes, liability may still fall to the city. These distinctions are important, because they determine how and where your claim is filed–and who can be held accountable for your injury.
What Should I Do After an Uneven Sidewalk Injury?
First and foremost, seek medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to get checked out by a professional. Some injuries, like fractures, ligament tears, or head trauma, may not be immediately obvious.
Once your health is under control, try to gather as much evidence as possible. Take clear photos of the sidewalk where you fell, including wide shots and close-ups of the hazard. If there were any witnesses, get their contact information. Save any shoes or clothing damaged in the fall, and keep all medical records and receipts related to your treatment. These details can play a major role in supporting your claim later on.
And don’t wait too long to speak to an attorney. In New York, you typically have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit, but if a government entity is involved, you may have to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the incident. Missing these deadlines can cost you your case.
Can I Be Compensated for My Injuries?
If your fall was due to negligence, meaning the responsible party failed to properly maintain the sidewalk, you may be entitled to compensation. This could include payment for medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation, pain and suffering, and more. But getting fair compensation isn’t always simple.
Insurance companies and property owners often try to shift blame or downplay your injuries. That’s why having a skilled personal injury attorney on your side is so important. Our firm can investigate your case, identify the liable parties, gather critical evidence, and advocate for the full amount you deserve.
If you have additional questions or are looking to file a premises liability claim, simply contact the Law Office of Richard M. Kenny today.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED NEW YORK CITY FIRM
Our entire legal team is dedicated to providing the advice you need and the personalized attention you deserve. If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, call (212) 421-0300 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a Manhattan slip & fall lawyer. You may be entitled to financial compensation, which can help you on your road to recovery.
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