Pothole Accidents, Sidewalk Slip and Fall Injuries
The streets and sidewalks of Queens can be dangerous for pedestrians. Snow and ice, sidewalk defects, potholes, uneven pavement and crumbling steps can all cause trips and falls that result in serious injuries.
The attorneys of Chiariello & Chiariello know how to help. For more than 50 years, our law firm has pursued financial compensation for people who were seriously injured in trip, slip and fall accidents caused by street or sidewalk defects. We have also represented people injured in pedestrian and auto accidents caused by street defects.
For example,
- Our client was injured after falling into a trench in the street that had not been properly marked or barricaded by utility workers.
- When a construction plate on the roadway shifted, our client's car dropped through the hole in the road into the construction site, causing serious injury.
New York Sidewalk Injury Law
With some exceptions, New York City landowners are now liable for injuries caused by defects on the sidewalks that abut their property. Business and residential property owners — including absentee landlords — are responsible for monitoring the condition of the sidewalks and making repairs, as necessary. If they fail to do so and someone gets hurt because of their negligence, the property owner can be sued for damages.
Access to Important Evidence
Our law firm is a member of the Big Apple Pothole & Sidewalk Protection Committee of the New York State Trial Lawyers Association. This group maps sidewalk, curb and crosswalk defects throughout the city and notifies the city of these dangerous conditions. The committee's maps serve as adequate prior written notice of a defect, which can help build a solid legal case for a sidewalk or crosswalk injury victim.
Deadlines for Giving Notice
Our attorneys can review your case and determine whether the city, the property owner, or another party is liable for damages. In some cases, you may have a claim against more than one party. If your case involves bringing a claim against the city, you must give notice of your intention to file a claim within 90 days of the date of the accident. Please don't delay. You may lose your right to receive compensation for damages.
To arrange a free initial consultation, please contact us by e-mail or call 888-692-1540. From offices in Glen Cove and Forest Hills, our lawyers represent clients in Queens, the other boroughs of New York City, and Long Island.
