In general, property owners are responsible for maintaining sidewalks adjacent to their property. In New York City, for example, private property owners are legally required to keep sidewalks in a safe condition, including repairing cracks, uneven surfaces, or other hazards. If a trip and fall occurs due to their negligence, they could be held liable.
Additionally, property owners are responsible for clearing ice and snow from sidewalks within a set timeframe after a storm. Failing to shovel or apply salt can create hazardous conditions, leading to liability for injuries. However, there are exceptions.
The city is responsible for maintaining sidewalks next to municipal properties, such as parks or government buildings, and for hazards caused by tree roots or other city-managed elements. Determining who is responsible for these injuries depends on the location of the sidewalk, its ownership, and the circumstances surrounding the accident. A Long Island slip and fall lawyer can help you identify the liable party and pursue compensation for your injuries.
To hold a liable party accountable, you must prove that their negligence caused the unsafe condition and that they failed to take reasonable steps to fix it. Evidence such as photos, accident reports, and witness statements is crucial to building a strong case.
If ice or snow contributed to your fall, documenting the timeline of when it occurred and the property owner’s efforts (or lack thereof) to address it can support your claim for compensation.
The founder and lead trial attorney at Chaikin Trial Group Injury Lawyers, Ian Chaikin, has recovered $100 million for injured accident victims.
