With ever-increasing foot traffic in New York City and the rapidly growing poor condition of streets and sidewalks, sidewalk accidents have been frequently common. Property owners are generally responsible for maintaining the sidewalks in front of their buildings. Individuals and parties responsible for the care and maintenance of sidewalks may be held liable for any injuries caused by the poor condition of the sidewalks.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to a dangerous and/or poorly maintained sidewalk, you should immediately consult with an experienced New York City sidewalk injury attorney to protect your legal rights.
New York Law for Sidewalk Accidents
A few years ago, New York City signed two bills into law that reduce the city’s liability for injuries that occur due to defective or poorly maintained sidewalks. The bills place responsibility and liability upon the owner. The Adjoining Landowner Liability Bill forces property owners to maintain sidewalks in front of and adjoining their buildings.
More specifically, New York City Administrative Code for Sidewalk Rules § 7-210, places liability on real property owners for injuries caused by their failure to maintain sidewalks in a reasonably safe condition.
Common Sidewalk Conditions Created by Neglect or Carelessness
Some common sidewalk conditions created by neglect or carelessness include:
- Sidewalk cracks
- Uneven or raised pavement
- Broken pavement
- Loose bricks in walkways
- Grating that can catch a heel, walker or cane
- Flat-lying metal doors that are higher or lower than the sidewalk’s level
Regardless of what caused your sidewalk accident, one thing remains the same – most serious injuries you sustain can forever alter your life and the lives of your loved ones.
Sidewalk Accident Injuries
Sidewalk accidents can result in serious injuries. Some of the most common include:
- Broken wrists or “Colles” fractures
- Foot and ankle tears
- Leg and ankle fractures, including “Lisfranc” and metatarsal fractures
- Knee and hip tears and fractures
- Back injuries
- Avulsion fractures
Contact Our New York Sidewalk Accident Attorneys
If you have been injured in a premises accident involving slips, trips, and falls on a sidewalk in New York City, you need to immediately contact an experienced New York City sidewalk accident attorney to protect your legal rights and get you the full compensation that you deserve. For more information or to consult with our legal team, please call Gersowitz Libo & Korek, P.C. at 212-385-4410.
