Slip-and-fall claim A personal injury claim brought by someone who fell because of a dangerous surface condition, such as a raised sidewalk flag, a pothole, ice, or standing water, seeking compensation from the responsible party.
Sidewalk slip-and-fall and trip-and-fall claims are among the most frequent injury lawsuits in New York City, and § 7-210 directs most of them at abutting property owners rather than the City. A typical claim combines photographs of the defect, medical records, and evidence of how long the condition existed. Settlements and verdicts routinely reach five and six figures when fractures or surgery are involved. For owners, each visible defect on the frontage is effectively an open claim waiting for a plaintiff, which is why repair costs are small compared with litigation exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slip-and-fall claim
What is a sidewalk slip-and-fall claim?
A personal injury claim by someone who fell because of a dangerous surface condition such as a raised flag, hole, ice or standing water, seeking compensation from the responsible party.
Who is usually the defendant in NYC?
The abutting property owner, because 7-210 directs most sidewalk claims at private owners rather than the City.
What evidence typically supports a claim?
Photographs and measurements of the defect, medical records, witness statements, and proof of how long the condition existed such as prior complaints or DOT violations.
What is the difference between slip-and-fall and trip-and-fall?
A slip involves loss of traction, usually from ice, water or a slick surface. A trip involves catching a foot on an obstruction such as a raised or broken flag. Both are handled under the same negligence framework.