NYC Injuries from Damaged & Defective Sidewalks

Liability in New York City Sidewalk Injury Claims

For many years, liability for injuries and accidents that occurred due to defective or damaged sidewalks fell on the City of New York. In 2003, however, the laws were amended to place liability on the owner of the property adjacent to the sidewalk – except for 1, 2, and 3 family owner-occupied residential properties. All other property owners in New York City are responsible for maintaining and repairing their sidewalks.

The City of New York may be sued for accidents that occur adjacent to owner-occupied residential properties if it can be proven that the City was given written notice of the hazard at least 14 days prior to the accident it caused.

Even though the law is relatively straightforward when it comes to sidewalk maintenance and repairs, it can be challenging to determine liability and to prove fault. That is why our experience and resources are so crucial to resolving our clients’ claims. Our New York City sidewalk injury attorneys know the ins and outs of sidewalk injury legislation and case law. We will consider and pursue every possible source of compensation to maximize your recovery – whether we must prove fault of a property owner and/or the City of New York.