White Plains City Sidewalk Fall Lawyer
Trip and fall accidents on sidewalks are more common than many people realize—and in White Plains, these incidents can cause serious injuries with long-term consequences. Uneven sidewalks, improper maintenance, or negligent oversight can create dangerous conditions that place pedestrians at risk. At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, our experienced attorneys represent fall accident victims across Westchester County and the surrounding New York City metropolitan area.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to a sidewalk accident, our fall accident attorneys are here to help. We understand how devastating these injuries can be—both physically and financially. With decades of combined experience in personal injury law, our law offices are ready to help you recover just compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Understanding Trip and Fall Accidents on City Sidewalks
Sidewalk accidents can result from a variety of hazardous conditions. Many people suffer injuries each year due to a property owner’s negligence, which can include a failure to maintain sidewalks or provide timely repairs. Common causes of fall injuries include:
- Uneven sidewalk surfaces or cracked pavement
- Debris, ice, or snow that wasn’t cleared in a timely manner
- Improper drainage or use of defective materials
- Dangerous conditions prior to an accident that were ignored
In such cases, both the property owner and the particular municipality may bear responsibility, depending on the location of the fall and the maintenance obligations under municipal statutes or other municipal statutes.
Who Is Responsible for Sidewalk Falls in White Plains?
Responsibility for sidewalk accidents is governed by both local building codes and New York law. In White Plains, property owners—particularly those responsible for commercial or residential buildings—are legally required to maintain sidewalks adjacent to their property in a reasonably safe condition. If a property owner fails to repair an uneven sidewalk or dangerous condition, they may be held responsible for any resulting fall accident.
In some cases involving sidewalks under municipal control, the city may also be liable—but only if it has been provided written notification of the defect and failed to take action within a reasonable or timely manner. This concept, known as “prior written notice,” is critical in determining fault in sidewalk cases.
Common Injuries from Trip and Fall Accidents
Trip and fall accidents often cause more than just bruises or embarrassment. Many injured persons suffer:
- Head injuries and concussions
- Serious knee or neck injuries
- Broken bones, sprains, and fractures
- Severe injuries requiring long-term rehabilitation
The injuries suffered can lead to substantial medical expenses and extended time away from work. In more serious cases, victims may experience permanent disabilities that change the course of their lives.
Legal Options for Injured Pedestrians
If you were hurt in a trip and fall accident due to negligent maintenance of a sidewalk, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Our knowledgeable attorneys will evaluate the circumstances surrounding your accident to determine who may be held responsible. Whether the case involves a private homeowner, a commercial property owned by a business, or a sidewalk maintained by the city, we’ll assess whether there was a more transient defect or a defect that existed for a more substantial period.
We will help you:
- Investigate the scene and gather evidence
- Identify the party responsible for maintenance
- Work with professional engineers to assess the sidewalk defect
- File timely claims within legal deadlines
- Handle communications with the insurance company
How a Fall Attorney Can Help You
Working with a skilled fall accident lawyer can significantly improve your chances of recovering full compensation. Our experienced attorneys understand how to navigate the complexities of personal injury law and prove property owner’s negligence. From the initial consultation through potential trial, we provide:
- Compassionate, personalized guidance for every client
- Aggressive negotiation with the insurance company
- Thorough knowledge of defective sidewalk cases
- Clear communication and updates about your claim
If the property owner fails to fulfill their legal duties, or if there’s a tenant’s failure to maintain the property, we will ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.
Get Legal Help from an Experienced White Plains Fall Lawyer
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, our law offices have helped countless fall accident victims in White Plains and Westchester County obtain the compensation they need. Whether you’ve been injured on someone else’s property, near office buildings, or on a sidewalk owned by the city, we’re ready to help you successfully pursue your case.
Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay attorney fees unless we win. During your free consultation, we’ll review your case, explain your rights, and develop a strategy to pursue the financial compensation you deserve.
Learn more about your legal rights after a sidewalk fall by speaking with a White Plains City Sidewalk Fall Lawyer. Call Greenstein & Pittari, LLP at (800) 842-8462 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
FAQ: White Plains City Sidewalk Fall Lawyer
Who is responsible for sidewalk maintenance in White Plains?
In most cases, property owners are responsible for maintaining sidewalks adjacent to their property. In some cases, the city may be liable if it received prior written notice of a defect and failed to repair it.
Can I sue for a trip and fall accident on a sidewalk?
Yes. If the fall was caused by dangerous conditions, such as an uneven sidewalk or negligent maintenance, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim.
What kind of compensation can I recover?
You may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your injury.
What if the sidewalk was owned by the city?
Municipal liability is possible, but you must prove that the city had written notice of the defect. Specific legal procedures and deadlines apply to municipal claims.
How long do I have to file a claim for a sidewalk accident?
In New York, you typically have three years to file a personal injury lawsuit—but much shorter deadlines apply when suing a municipality. Act quickly and speak with an attorney.