What canI do if I tripped and injured myself on a bad sidewalk?
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What canI do if I tripped and injured myself on a bad sidewalk?
I recently fell on a bad residential sidewalk and broke my hand very badly. The city hasno prior notice and homeowners insurance won’t accept responsibility. Can you help? I have medicals bills outstanding and was off work.
Asked on February 28, 2011 under Personal Injury, New York
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
If you haven't already, get a lawyer--NOW--and discuss the matter; IF you're going to file a claim, you'll have to do it immediately, since the law allows a very short period of time only to claim against the city.
However, be prepared that it is likely that you can't claim, and that's what an attorney will advise when she has the chance to review the situation in detail. Municapalities are only responsible for sidewalk, road, etc. maintenance issues and the injuries resulting from them when there was prior notice and an opportunity to correct the condition. If there was no prior notice, then it is highly unlikely you could successfully sustain a claim.
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