New York City Sidewalk Trip and Fall Accident Law – Information and Resources
New York City’s sidewalks are among the busiest in the world, used daily by millions of pedestrians. While the city’s fast-paced environment is part of its charm, it also presents hazards—particularly when sidewalks are broken, uneven, or improperly maintained. A sidewalk trip and fall accident can result in severe injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term pain and suffering. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a hazardous sidewalk in New York City, you may be entitled to compensation.
Holding Property Owners and the City Accountable
New York City has laws that govern sidewalk maintenance and liability. Under New York City Administrative Code § 7-210, property owners are responsible for maintaining the sidewalks adjacent to their property in a safe condition. If a sidewalk is cracked, broken, or otherwise defective, and it causes a pedestrian to trip and fall, the property owner may be held liable for damages. However, when the sidewalk is adjacent to municipal property or falls under the city’s responsibility, the City of New York may be liable.
Determining liability in a sidewalk trip and fall case requires a thorough investigation into who owns or controls the property, whether the defect was reported or known, and whether negligence can be proven. An experienced New York City trip and fall lawyer can help navigate these legal complexities and build a strong case for compensation.
Common Causes of Sidewalk Trip and Fall Accidents
Sidewalk trip and fall accidents can occur for various reasons, including:
- Cracked or broken pavement
- Uneven surfaces or abrupt elevation changes
- Loose or missing sidewalk slabs
- Potholes or depressions
- Construction debris or sidewalk obstructions
- Tree roots pushing up sidewalk sections
Injuries Resulting from Sidewalk Falls
A trip and fall on a sidewalk may seem minor at first, but these accidents often lead to serious injuries. Common injuries include:
- Fractures and broken bones (especially in the wrists, arms, and hips)
- Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Torn ligaments or soft tissue injuries
- Severe bruising and lacerations
These injuries can lead to costly medical bills, extensive rehabilitation, and an inability to work. In the most severe cases, permanent disability can result. Seeking immediate medical attention and legal representation is crucial to protecting your health and your rights.
How a New York City Sidewalk Trip and Fall Lawyer Can Help
Proving liability in a sidewalk trip and fall case requires demonstrating that the responsible party knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and failed to address it. A skilled personal injury attorney can assist by:
- Investigating the scene of the accident and collecting evidence
- Identifying the responsible property owner or city agency
- Reviewing surveillance footage and obtaining witness statements
- Consulting with medical and safety experts to assess injuries and damages
- Negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair compensation
- Filing a lawsuit if a fair settlement is not reached
If your fall was caused by a defect in a city-maintained sidewalk, special legal requirements apply, including filing a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident. Missing this deadline can jeopardize your ability to seek compensation. A knowledgeable attorney will ensure all legal procedures are followed correctly.
Compensation for Sidewalk Trip and Fall Accidents
Victims of sidewalk trip and fall accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
The amount of compensation depends on the severity of the injuries and the extent of negligence involved. Consulting an attorney early in the process can help maximize your potential recovery.
Contact Leandros A. Vrionedes
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries from a sidewalk trip and fall in New York City, you need a lawyer who understands the complexities of premises liability and municipal claims. Leandros A. Vrionedes, P.C. has extensive experience handling personal injury claims and is dedicated to fighting for the rights of accident victims.
Call today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn about your legal options. Time is of the essence, especially when dealing with municipal liability claims, so don’t wait—let us help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
