In New York City, thousands of people visit public parks every day. Accidents happen. When someone is injured there, the question of liability becomes very important for a potential client to understand. Continue reading and reach out to a seasoned Manhattan slip and fall lawyer from the Law Office of Richard M. Kenny to learn more about who may be liable for injuries in public parks and how our legal team can help. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What circumstances at a public park can lead to liability?
Injuries can occur in many ways. A broken swing might cause a child to fall. A poorly maintained pathway might cause a senior citizen to trip and break a wrist. Even a stray branch from a tree could fall and cause serious harm.
Parks in New York City are maintained by the city’s Parks Department. If maintenance is inadequate, the city might be at fault. If a hazardous condition is obvious, such as a large pothole in a walking path, and the city knew or should have known about it, the injured person may have a viable claim.
But if the hazard was hidden or newly formed and no notice could have been given, liability may be harder to prove. The length of time a condition existed can matter substantially. Prior complaints or documented reports can support a claim that the city had constructive knowledge. Many prospective clients are unaware that these details can dictate whether liability exists.
How might third-party contractors or private entities be responsible?
Sometimes the city hires private firms to maintain landscaping or playground equipment. If such contractors negligently install or repair equipment, they could bear responsibility. Even a private concessionaire providing services in a park, such as a vendor with heavy carts or a structure that collapses, might be legally liable. New York law allows injured individuals to pursue claims not only against the municipal agency but also against any underlying party whose negligence contributed to the injury. This includes negligent subcontractors or independent contractors.
However, proving such responsibility often requires investigation. Documentation such as maintenance logs, contracts, subcontractor agreements, or inspection records may be needed. If private companies did not perform adequate duties, and their negligence caused injury, plaintiffs may be able to recover from them.
When should someone injured in a park contact a lawyer?
It is best to act promptly. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims against the city of New York is typically within ninety days to file a notice of claim. After that, one has a limited period to file a lawsuit. For claims against private parties, such as contractors, the general personal injury statute of limitations in New York is usually three years. Acting quickly ensures preservation of evidence; witness recollections fade, physical evidence may disappear, and video footage may be retained only briefly.
Therefore, contacting an attorney as soon as possible can increase the chances of gathering vital information and preparing a timely claim. If you believe you have a valid claim and wish to speak with a personal injury attorney, 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 slip & fall lawyer. You may be entitled to financial compensation, which can help you on your road to recovery.
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