New York Premises Liability FAQ

Were you hurt because of unsafe conditions on someone else’s property in New York City, NY? Property owners have a legal duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition. When they fail to do so, and someone gets injured, they can be held financially responsible.
At Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers, we’ve spent decades protecting the rights of injury victims throughout New York. Our experienced attorneys have recovered tens of millions of dollars for people harmed by negligence. If you’ve been injured, contact us today at (212) 514-5007 to schedule a free consultation with a trusted New York premises liability lawyer.
Below, we answer some of the most common questions about premises liability claims in New York.
Why Choose Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers to Handle My Premises Liability Case in New York?

Premises liability cases in New York City, New York, can be complex. Insurance companies will often downplay your injuries or argue that you caused your own accident. You need a team of seasoned New York City personal injury lawyers who know how to look out for your best interests.
Here’s what sets Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers apart:
- Decades of combined experience successfully handling New York premises liability and personal injury cases
- Millions recovered for clients in verdicts and settlements
- Recognition from Super Lawyers, The National Trial Lawyers “Top 100,” and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
- A thorough understanding of New York property, building, and safety laws
Whether you were injured in a Manhattan apartment building, a Brooklyn supermarket, or a Queens office complex, our team will fight for every dollar you deserve.
Reach out today to schedule a free case review with a New York City premises liability attorney.
What Are Common Premises Liability Hazards in New York?
New York buildings and businesses present countless potential hazards. Property owners must regularly inspect and maintain their premises to prevent accidents.
Some of the most common causes of premises liability injuries in New York include:
- Wet or slippery floors without warning signs
- Broken stairs, handrails, or walkways
- Uneven or cracked sidewalks
- Poor lighting in hallways, stairwells, or parking lots
- Negligent security that enables assault or theft
- Falling merchandise or unsafe shelving in stores
- Accumulated snow or ice on sidewalks or entryways
When a property owner or manager fails to fix or warn of these hazards, they can be held liable for the resulting injuries.
What Is Premises Liability Law in New York?
New York law requires property owners, landlords, and tenants in control of property to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition for those lawfully on their property.
The specific duty of care does not change based on the visitor’s legal status. Rather, the property owner has a duty of reasonable care under the circumstances.
Proving a premises liability claim in New York typically requires showing that:
- A dangerous condition existed on the property.
- The owner was aware of or should have been aware of the issue.
- The owner failed to repair or warn about it.
- You were injured as a result.
At Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers, we gather maintenance records, surveillance footage, witness testimony, and expert opinions to establish these elements and prove negligence on the part of a property owner.
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Premises Liability Accident in New York?
If you were injured on someone else’s property, you may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and trauma
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship (in wrongful death cases)
Our attorneys work closely with medical and financial experts to accurately assess your losses so that you’re not left with unpaid bills or inadequate compensation.
What if I’m Partially at Fault for My Injury in New York?
New York follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning that you can still recover damages even if you were partly at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if a jury finds you 25% responsible for slipping and falling on an icy sidewalk and your total damages are $100,000, your recovery would be reduced to $75,000.
How Long Do I Have to File a Premises Liability Lawsuit in New York?
Under New York law, you generally have three years from the date of your injury to file a premises liability lawsuit.
If the accident resulted in a wrongful death, surviving family members typically have two years from the date of death to bring a claim.
If your case involves a municipal property, you may be subject to shorter notice requirements. Deadlines vary, so it’s critical to consult an attorney right away to preserve your right to compensation.
Contact Our New York City Premises Liability Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured due to unsafe property conditions in New York, you have rights. The attorneys at Rosenbaum Personal Injury Lawyers have decades of experience taking on negligent property owners.
We’ve helped countless New Yorkers recover fair compensation after devastating accidents, and we’re ready to help you, too.
Contact us today or schedule your free consultation with an experienced New York City premises liability attorney. Let us fight for your rights while you focus on healing.