July 8, 2011

Too Few Agents to Enforce Pier Safety on Coney Island

According to an article in the New York Daily News, youngsters in Coney Island have been flocking to the Steeplechase Pier to exercise their inner daredevil by jumping off the pier into the sea below. Diving off the pier is prohibited and dangerous but there is no one to stop the kids from jumping. Because of budget cuts, the Parks Department who monitors the pier, has had to reduce the number of agents in the field. If agents were on hand, they could write tickets to those who jump from the pier. Unfortunately, according to union officials for the Parks Department, there are now only two officers for all of Brooklyn’s parks and beaches.

In 1992, a pair of brothers jumped from the pier and broke their necks, making them paralyzed for life. At the time there were no warnings or signs posted. They sued the city and won more than $100 million, which was lowered to $25 million on appeal. As a result of the suit, signs were posted on the pier. “If someone could’ve shown me what would happen, I wouldn’t have done what I did,” said one of the brothers, “You can ignore a sign…The city should put a guard on the pier.”

While individuals should use common sense to keep themselves safe, city organizations also have a responsibility to warn the public of danger and enforce safety regulations. If you or someone you love has been injured due to the negligence of an entity in charge of maintaining a piece of property or public land, the Brooklyn premises liability lawyers at Wingate, Russotti and Shapiro, LLP can help. Our lawyers have the experience necessary to thoroughly analyze your situation and get you the best possible outcome for your case. Call today to speak with a New York personal injury lawyer at 212-222-4336.

April 25, 2011

The Basics of New York Premises Liability

New York property owners and business establishments have an obligation to provide a safe environment for visitors and other individuals. It is common for New York accident injuries to occur on another person’s property, but if the accident and resulting injury are the result of an unsafe environment, the injured victim may seek compensation by filing a New York personal injury claim against the negligent owner.

Premises liability cases in New York usually involve falling accidents caused by an improperly maintained surface or space. When floors are uneven, steps are broken, sidewalks are cracked, pathways are improperly lit, or hazardous areas are poorly labeled, it increases the potential of serious injury. Two different stairwell accidents illustrate the range of premises liability injuries: Tripping on a broken step on the way up a stairwell could cause cuts, bruising, and possible facial and hand or wrist fractures; tripping on a broken step on the way down however can cause severe cuts and lacerations, external and internal bruising, bone fractures, brain injury, and even death. Most of these injuries require medical examinations and often extensive and expensive medical treatment.

Recovering from an injury can be financially and emotionally burdensome, especially if the injury was not your fault. A negligent property owner typically does not make repairs in a timely manner or at all, does not cordon off or otherwise designate unsafe areas of the property, and does not abide by state safety regulations. Such an owner increases the risk of a personal injury accident on their New York property, and thus increases the risk of legal action against them.

If you or a loved one has been injured on the property of a negligent owner, the dedicated Bronx premises liability attorneys at Wingate, Russotti & Shapiro, LLP, can help you exercise your legal rights. We will work professionally and diligently towards recovering the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 1-877-910-2220 to speak to one of our personal injury attorneys about your potential claim.

February 15, 2011

New York Premises Accident Causes & Injuries

New York premises liability cases involve accidents in which a person is injured on another person’s property. It can be a business, residence, or public property. When an individual sustains an injury on someone else’s property, the owner of the property can be held legally responsible for all damages that resulted from their negligence.

There are several factors that can contribute to a New York premises liability injury including, but not limited to:

  • Broken sidewalks
  • Broken stairs
  • Poorly maintained or uneven surface floors
  • Poorly marked or a failure to mark elevation changes
  • Slippery floors
  • Uneven elevators

Even if an injury seems small at the time of an accident, if left untreated, it is possible for an injury to significantly worsen. It is always best to seek medical attention after an accident, such as a slip-and-fall, to ensure that no serious injuries occurred. Some more severe injuries that can result from a premises liability accident are:

  • Broken bones
  • Head/brain injuries
  • Nerve damage
  • Soft tissue damage
  • Spinal cord injuries

It is the responsibility of all property owners to ensure that their premises are safe, whether it be a business, residence, or otherwise. When that responsibility is ignored and an innocent person is injured, the victim has the right to hold them liable with the help of a skilled New York premises liability attorney.

If you or a loved one was involved in an accident on someone else’s property because of the owner’s negligence, the dedicated personal injury attorneys at Wingate, Russotti & Shapiro, LLP can help. With years of experience successfully handling a wide array of premises liability cases, we have the necessary resources to examine the details of your case and ensure that your rights are upheld in a court of law. Call Wingate, Russotti & Shapiro, LLP at 212-986-7353 for a free and confidential consultation.