All properties have a propensity for danger. No matter where you travel, even on a sidewalk, hazards are present, and they can quickly lead to an accident. Specifically, if you sustained injuries due to dangerous sidewalk conditions, continue reading to understand how one of the experienced Queens premises liability attorneys at The Law Offices of George Poulos can fight on your behalf and obtain the financial compensation you deserve.
Who is the responsible party for dangerous sidewalk conditions?
A property owner is almost always the responsible party for the safety hazards found on their sidewalk. By New York law, property owners are responsible for monitoring their walking surfaces and taking the necessary action to rectify issues and do so promptly. The following are sidewalk issues that property owners are required to address:
- Weather-related hazards, such as snow or ice.
- Slippery substances.
- Loose debris.
- Noxious substances.
- Surface troubles, such as potholes, uneven pavement, or exposed tree roots.
- Inadequate lighting.
What should I do after an injury from dangerous sidewalk conditions?
To have a valid premises liability claim, you must prove the following as true:
- The property owner knew or should have known about the safety hazards on their sidewalk.
- The property owner neglected to address the safety hazards promptly.
- These safety hazards directly led to your injuries and damages.
And to prove this, it is in your best interest to take the below steps immediately after your accident:
- Call 911: the police will call for an ambulance and write up an accident report. You should obtain this report afterward.
- Capture the scene: take photos and videos of your injuries, damages, and any safety hazards that directly led to your accident.
- Collect witness contact information: ask if they have any photos and videos and if they can provide witness testimony afterward.
- Seek medical treatment: get treated at the scene and afterward. You should obtain this medical documentation and bills afterward.
- Contact our firm: reach out to one of the skilled Queens slip & fall accident attorneys. We will obtain any other evidence, such as surveillance footage.
What is the statute of limitations in New York state?
In New York state, the deadline for your premises liability claim will be three years from the date of your accident. The deadline is even tighter if your accident occurred on a sidewalk owned by the government or a municipality, at just 90 days from the date of your accident to file a Notice of Claim. If you miss these deadlines, you will ultimately miss out on obtaining compensation.
Contact our Firm
The Law Offices of George Poulos is an experienced Workers’ Compensation, personal injury, and Social Security Disability law firm with offices in Queens and the Bronx. If you require strong legal representation, contact our firm today.
