Injured While Visiting New York City? Know Your Legal Rights as a Tourist
New York City attracts millions of tourists from around the world each year. From iconic landmarks in Manhattan to cultural hotspots in Brooklyn and historic neighborhoods in The Bronx, visitors come for the experience of a lifetime. But a sudden accident can turn your NYC vacation into a painful and expensive ordeal.
If you were injured while visiting New York City—whether in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, or Staten Island—you have the legal right to seek compensation, regardless of where you live.
Can Tourists File a Personal Injury Claim in New York City?
Yes. Under New York law, non-residents and international visitors can pursue a personal injury claim if their injury was caused by negligence. Whether you’re from another state or another country, your legal rights in NYC are protected.
Common Grounds for Tourist Injury Claims in NYC:
- Dangerous or poorly maintained property conditions
- Negligent property owners or business operators
- Car, taxi, or Uber accidents caused by careless drivers
- Unsafe hotels, attractions, or public spaces
Compensation May Cover:
- Emergency and ongoing medical bills
- Future medical treatment or rehabilitation
- Lost wages or future earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Permanent injuries or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Personal property damage
Common Accidents That Injure Tourists in NYC
Tourists face a higher risk of injury in unfamiliar environments. Some of the most common incidents include:
- Car accidents involving taxis, Uber/Lyft, buses, or private vehicles
- Slip and fall accidents at NYC hotels, restaurants, retail stores, museums, or subway stations
- MTA subway, ferry, or train accidents
- Construction accidents from falling debris or unsafe sidewalks
- Hotel or resort injuries, including unsafe conditions or faulty equipment
- Negligent security incidents such as assaults, theft-related injuries, or poorly lit stairwells
- Recreational activity injuries (biking in Central Park, boating on the Hudson, amusement park rides)
- Defective premises or unsafe building violations
What to Do After a Tourist Injury in NYC
Taking immediate action after an accident in New York City can significantly strengthen your claim:
- Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Always go to an emergency room or urgent care—even for seemingly minor injuries. It creates a medical record that can support your case. - Report the Incident
- Call 911 for traffic accidents and request a police report
- Notify hotel staff, store management, or the property owner
- Report transit-related injuries to the MTA or appropriate city agency
- Document Everything
- Take clear photos and videos of the scene, hazard, and your injuries
- Collect witness names and contact information
- Save all receipts, hospital bills, and medical documents
- Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies Alone
Insurance adjusters may try to get you to settle quickly or say something that weakens your case. Speak to an attorney first. - Consult a New York City Personal Injury Lawyer for Tourists
An experienced NYC injury lawyer can handle your entire case remotely—so you won’t need to return for court proceedings.
Types of Injuries Common Among Tourists in NYC
Tourist accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, including:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Head trauma or traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries or paralysis
- Internal organ damage or bleeding
- Severe lacerations, disfigurement, or burns
- Nerve damage or amputations
- Soft tissue injuries (sprains, strains, whiplash)
How to Prove Liability in a New York City Personal Injury Claim
Your attorney will investigate to prove that negligence caused your injuries. This could involve:
- A property owner failing to fix a known hazard
- A business violating safety codes or building regulations
- A driver disobeying traffic laws
- Inadequate security measures at a hotel or attraction
- Multiple parties (e.g., contractors, government agencies) sharing legal liability
Claims involving the City of New York, the MTA, or public property have strict deadlines—some as short as 90 days.
Filing Deadlines (Statute of Limitations)
- General personal injury claim in New York: 3 years from the date of the accident
- Claims against a government entity (e.g., NYC, MTA):
- Notice of Claim: Must be filed within 90 days
- Lawsuit deadline: Typically 1 year and 90 days
Missing these deadlines can permanently bar your right to compensation.
Why Choose Greenstein & Pittari, LLP?
Tourist Injury Lawyers in New York City with Over 30 Years of Experience
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we focus exclusively on New York personal injury law, including claims for out-of-state and international visitors hurt while exploring NYC. We offer:
Free consultations You don’t pay unless we win (contingency fee) Remote case handling—no need to return to New York Responsive, compassionate service tailored to your situation Millions recovered for injured tourists and residents
Don’t Be a Victim Twice — Call1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462
Suffering an injury far from home is overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our legal team is ready to fight for you.
Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) for a free case review.
Or visit our office located in the heart of New York City.
Greenstein & Pittari, LLP — NYC Personal Injury Lawyers for Tourists
Protecting your rights in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, Staten Island and beyond.
Top-Rated, Award-Winning Lawyers
Since our founding, Greenstein & Pittari have recovered millions in compensation for accident injury victims. Our legal strategies, dedication to detail, and client-first approach have earned us a reputation as trusted, results-driven personal injury advocates.
Our nationally recognized personal injury lawyers have earned top ratings and awards from respected legal publications and professional review services such as:
Best Lawyers
Super Lawyers