The simple answer is yes—you can file a personal injury lawsuit if you were injured from a fall on an uneven sidewalk in New York City. However, it’s important to understand that certain legal requirements must be met, and these may differ from those in a typical lawsuit.
What are the laws governing sidewalks in New York City?
In New York City, the responsibility for sidewalk maintenance generally falls on the property owners adjacent to the sidewalk. According to the city's "sidewalk law" (New York City Administrative Code §7-210), property owners must keep sidewalks in a "reasonably safe condition." This duty includes shoveling snow, removing debris, and repairing cracks, uneven sections, or other hazards that could pose a danger to pedestrians.
If a property owner fails to maintain the sidewalk properly and someone is injured as a result, the owner can be held liable for those injuries. However, there are situations where the city, rather than the property owner, may be responsible. These exceptions include cases where the hazardous condition is caused by a municipal facility, such as a city-owned tree or utility cover, or when the city had prior written notice of the defect—like an uneven sidewalk—and failed to repair it within a reasonable time.
To establish liability, you must prove that the responsible party knew or should have known about the hazardous condition and did not take timely action to fix it. This can involve gathering evidence such as photos, maintenance records, or witness testimony that demonstrates the duration and severity of the defect.
Who owns the sidewalk and who is liable for injuries?
Although sidewalks in New York are public, the law generally places the burden of maintenance on the owners of the adjacent properties, whether they are residential or commercial. This means that if you are injured on an uneven sidewalk, your primary legal recourse will typically be against the property owner.
However, the city may still be liable in certain circumstances, such as:
- The city owns the property adjacent to the sidewalk.
- The city had prior written notice of the hazard (such as a crack or raised section) before the accident and failed to fix it within a reasonable time.
- The defect resulted from a city-maintained facility or infrastructure, like a street tree or utility cover.
To sue the city, you must file a Notice of Claim under New York State General Municipal Law §50-e within 90 days of the accident. This written notice must clearly outline the nature of the claim, the injury sustained, and the location of the incident. Failure to file this notice on time could prevent you from pursuing a claim against the city. Along with the notice, it's important to gather supporting evidence, such as photographs of the hazard, witness statements, and medical records, to substantiate your claim.
What are some common injuries and what damages can be recovered?
Slip and fall accidents on uneven sidewalks can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to severe. Common injuries include:
- Soft tissue damage (e.g., bruises, swelling)
- Sprains and strains
- Fractures, particularly hip fractures
- Broken bones
- Loss of limb
- Spinal cord injuries
- Head injuries or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Paralysis
- Death
If you were injured due to an uneven or poorly maintained sidewalk, you may be entitled to recover both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages are intended to compensate you for the financial losses you incurred as a result of your injury. These may include:
- Medical expenses: Costs for past and future medical treatment, including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages or loss of earning capacity: Compensation for income lost due to time away from work or a reduction in your ability to earn income in the future.
Non-economic damages are intended to compensate for non-financial losses, such as:
- Pain and suffering: Physical discomfort and emotional distress resulting from the injury.
- Emotional distress: Psychological impact, including anxiety, depression, or trauma caused by the accident.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Reduced ability to enjoy daily activities or hobbies due to the injury.
If you were injured on an uneven sidewalk while at work, you might also be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. Workers' compensation typically covers medical expenses and a portion of lost wages but does not include compensation for pain and suffering or other non-economic damages. However, if a third party, such as a property owner or the city, is found to be negligent, you may have the option to pursue additional damages through a separate personal injury claim.
What steps should you take if you’re injured on an uneven sidewalk?
If you’ve suffered an injury due to an uneven sidewalk, it’s important to take the following steps to protect your rights and strengthen your claim:
- Report the incident: Immediately report the injury in writing to the city of New York, particularly if you plan to file a claim against the city. Ensure that the report includes specific details about the location and nature of the accident.
- Gather evidence: Document the scene by taking clear photographs of the uneven sidewalk, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries. Collect the contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident or are familiar with the sidewalk's condition.
- Seek medical attention: Obtain medical care as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor. Medical records provide critical evidence of the extent of your injuries and the treatment required, which can significantly impact the amount of compensation you may recover.
- Consult a personal injury attorney: A New York personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of slip-and-fall cases, identify the liable parties, and determine the best course of action. An experienced attorney can also ensure that you meet all legal deadlines and procedural requirements, which is essential for maximizing your chances of success.
Handling a slip-and-fall case on your own can be overwhelming due to the complexities involved in determining liability and meeting legal deadlines. For the best chance of receiving fair compensation, consult with a dedicated personal injury attorney who understands the laws and regulations surrounding sidewalk injuries in New York City.