From slips on a store’s newly polished floor to dog bites caused by loose animals roaming the neighborhood, accidental injuries on someone else’s property occur every day in the Empire City. In fact, according to a New York City annual claims report, 15,553 personal injury claims were filed in the fiscal year of 2020, with nearly 25% of cases relating to sidewalk issues and medical malpractice. If you’ve recently been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, mishap, or wrongdoing, taking legal action first starts with determining the nature of your claim and whether it falls under premises or general liability.
What Is Premises Liability?
Premises liability involves accidents that occur on business, residential, or even city premises due to neglectful or below-standard conditions. This type of liability only applies in situations where a property owner or manager fails to maintain a level of reasonable safety of the premises, leading to injuries from visitors. If you’ve suffered an injury due to a property owner’s negligence, you may have grounds to pursue a civil claim or personal injury lawsuit and receive compensation for any damages endured.
Types of premises liability claims
While there are countless situations that can warrant a premises liability claim, some of the most common include:
- Slips and falls
- Fire safety and building code violations
- Defective stairways
- Dog or other animal attacks
What Is General Liability?
Much broader than premises liability, general liability involves injuries sustained from common property hazards during normal operational hours. Whereas premises liability specifically pertains to improper property maintenance, general liability can occur as a result of many different types of personal injuries — from physical harm to reputational damage — caused by a property owner. Injured parties may be able to take legal action so long as they prove they have suffered damages to their person or property.
Types of general liability claims
Encompassing premises liability, general liability can lead to a personal injury claim if:
- Bodily injury occurs to a third party at one’s property
- Damage is inflicted to someone else’s property
- Copyright infringement, slander, or libel leads to personal injury
NY Attorney FAQs
Why hire a personal injury attorney?
When injured as a result of someone else’s wrongdoing, a New York City personal injury attorney can help investigate your claim, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court.
What should I look for in an accident attorney in New York?
Choose an attorney specializing in personal injury law with experience in your claim area and genuine care for bringing your situation justice.
How the Leav & Steinberg Team Can Help
Since 1999, our team at Leav & Steinberg LLP has been helping our clients affected by personal injuries seek compensation from liable property owners. With in-office and at-home consultations, we are dedicated to making your personal injury case — no matter if it involves premises liability or general liability — our top priority.
Personal Injury Attorney in New York, NY
After suffering from personal damages brought on by another party, it’s critical to find legal representation that is diligent, trustworthy, and committed to your case. With a multi-lingual associates team available to handle all aspects of your claim, the law offices at Leav & Steinberg LLP strive to maximize accident victims’ results while providing excellent customer service. To get in touch with one of our experienced attorneys, request your free consultation with our personal injury law firm today.
