Slip and fall accidents happen every day in New York. They often occur on public property. This includes sidewalks, parks and government buildings. Wet floors, cracked pavement and icy walkways often cause serious injuries.
Many people think these accidents are due to bad luck. In reality, unsafe conditions often occur because someone failed to maintain the area.
When a public property owner may be at fault
New York law requires public property owners to keep their property reasonably safe. These owners include cities, towns and school districts. If they knew about a dangerous condition and failed to fix it on time, they may bear responsibility for injuries.
Common hazards include broken sidewalks, loose tiles and spills inside public buildings. In many cases, the injured person must also prove the public entity received prior written notice of the exact problem. This rule makes it harder to prove these cases.
Special rules for slip and fall claims in New York
Slip-and-fall cases against public entities are subject to strict rules. New York law requires injured people to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident. Missing this deadline can end the case.
In rare situations, a court may allow a late filing. State law limits this option to specific legal factors.
Evidence plays a key role in these cases. Photos of the scene help show the hazard. Witness names and accident reports support the claim. Medical records show the seriousness of the injuries.
Why these cases deserve attention
Slip and fall injuries can cause broken bones and long-term pain. Knowledge of New York’s rules helps injured people protect their rights. It also helps them avoid costly mistakes while seeking compensation.