The bustling sidewalks and treacherous stairways of New York City can turn a casual stroll into an unexpected moment of pain. A misstep on a slick floor, a hidden pothole disguised by puddles, and suddenly, life gets a lot harder. How long do you have to report a slip and fall? The answer depends on where the accident happened.
Reporting a Slip and Fall in Queens, NY
To start, you need an understanding of the concept of the statute of limitations. This legal term lays out the timeframe within which you must initiate legal action against the party responsible for your injuries. Failure to file a claim within this allotted period effectively bars you from seeking compensation in court.
In New York, the general statute of limitations for slip and fall accidents is three years from the date of the injury. This might seem like a long time, but don’t let it lull you into a false sense of security.
For one thing, time slips away very quickly, especially when you’re dealing with medical bills, emotional trauma, and the legal system. For another, if you wait too long to report that accident and start a paper trail on your claim, the other side will have a stronger case if they try to claim that your injuries aren’t related to your fall.
Exceptions to Be Aware Of
The three-year rule takes a surprising turn when you’re dealing with claims against government entities like the New York City Housing Authority or any state property. If you fall on government property, a shorter and stricter deadline applies: you only have a 90-day window to file a Notice of Claim. This document formally informs the government agency of your intention to sue and outlines the details of your accident and alleged damages.
Missing this crucial deadline puts an end to your chances of getting reimbursement for your losses after a slip and fall. And remember: even after you’ve made the initial claim, the clock keeps ticking. After filing the Notice of Claim, you have only one year and 90 days to file a lawsuit when a government entity is involved. A skilled personal injury lawyer can ensure you meet all the necessary deadlines and guide you through the legal procedures, but it’s important to get help right away.
Other Reasons to Get Help Quickly
The complexities of reporting slip and fall accidents don’t end with meeting all the deadlines. Certain public agencies, like the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, have even shorter claim-notification deadlines, demanding action within 60 days. It’s very important that you work with a legal professional who is intimately familiar with the nuances of New York state and NYC personal injury law.
Remember, time is not your friend. Delays in reporting can have detrimental consequences beyond just barring you from making a claim. For one thing, the longer you wait, the harder it becomes to gather evidence, secure witness testimonies, and build a strong case. Furthermore, reporting your slip and fall promptly means you’ll get compensation that much sooner, and you may need settlement money to afford all the necessary medical care without unnecessary financial strain.
If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident in the five boroughs or Long Island, don’t wait. Contact Surdez & Perez P.C. right away for help.
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