Can a Bronx Slip and Fall Lawyer Help If You Broke Your Arm on City Property?
Can a Bronx Slip and Fall Lawyer Help If You Broke Your Arm on City Property?
Introduction
Slip and fall accidents on public property in the Bronx can have serious consequences—especially when they result in broken bones like a fractured arm. If you or a loved one suffered a fall on a sidewalk, park, public building, or other municipal space, you may be wondering: Can I sue the City of New York for my injuries? The answer depends on several legal factors. In this article, we’ll walk you through your rights under New York premises liability law, when and how you can file a claim, and why contacting a Bronx slip and fall lawyer quickly is critical.
Who Is Responsible for a Fall on Public Property in NYC?
In New York City, responsibility for maintaining sidewalks and other public walkways may fall on different entities:
- The City of New York may be liable if the fall occurred on city-owned property, such as a park, public plaza, or government building entrance.
- Private property owners may be responsible for the sidewalk in front of their building, especially in commercial areas.
- NYC agencies like the Department of Parks and Recreation or the NYC Housing Authority could be involved depending on the location.
To hold someone legally accountable, you must prove negligence—that the responsible party failed to maintain the property in a reasonably safe condition and that this directly caused your injury.
Common Causes of Falls on Public Property
Some of the most common hazards leading to slip and fall injuries in the Bronx include:
- Ice or snow that was not cleared in time
- Broken or uneven sidewalks
- Loose grates or metal plates
- Poor lighting in public stairways or walkways
- Spilled liquids in subway stations or public buildings
These conditions often form the basis for a premises liability claim in New York.
Can You Sue NYC for a Slip and Fall Injury?
Yes, you may be able to sue the City of New York, but there are strict procedural rules:
- Notice of Claim: You must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the incident.
- Lawsuit Deadline: You must file the actual lawsuit within one year and 90 days from the date of the fall.
Failing to meet these deadlines could mean losing your right to seek compensation. This is why it’s critical to speak with a Bronx slip and fall lawyer as soon as possible.
How to Prove Negligence in a Public Property Fall Case
To win a claim against the City or another responsible party, you generally need to prove:
- The condition was dangerous.
- The City or agency had actual or constructive notice of the condition.
- They failed to fix it within a reasonable time.
- The hazard directly caused your fall and injuries.
Evidence that can help your case includes:
- Photos or video of the hazardous condition
- Incident reports
- Eyewitness accounts
- Medical records
- Maintenance records (obtained via legal discovery)
What Is Your Claim Worth After a Broken Bone?
Compensation in a premises liability claim may cover:
- Medical bills (hospitalization, surgery, physical therapy)
- Lost wages if you’re unable to work
- Pain and suffering from the injury
- Future medical expenses and loss of earning capacity
If you broke your arm in a fall, the extent of the fracture, required surgeries, and long-term impact on your mobility will influence the value of your case.
Why You Need a Bronx Slip and Fall Lawyer
Slip and fall claims involving public property are complex. A skilled attorney can help you:
- Determine if the City or another party is liable
- File all documents within legal deadlines
- Gather and preserve critical evidence
- Negotiate with the City’s legal department or insurance representatives
- Take your case to trial if necessary
The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the better your chances of building a strong case.
Don’t Wait – Talk to a Lawyer Today
If you fell on public property in the Bronx and suffered a broken arm or other serious injury, time is of the essence. New York’s laws limit how long you have to act. Let us help you understand your rights and options.
Contact Cohan Law Firm today for a free consultation with a Bronx slip and fall lawyer.
We’ll review your case, evaluate your legal options, and guide you through the process with experience and compassion.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship.