What Type Of Evidence Could Strengthen A Sidewalk Accident Case In New York?
Sidewalks are designed to keep pedestrians safe from cars and other vehicles. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. Over 2,000 people file sidewalk accident claims each year. While these may not seem serious on the surface, your injuries could lead to long-term conditions. For this reason, filing a personal injury claim is the best way to recover medical costs and seek justice. Here are a few types of evidence your case should have to boost its chances of success:
1. Photos and Videos Of The Scene
For starters, you need to have proof of what caused you to fall on the sidewalk in the first place. Make sure to write down dates, times, and other information that describes the scene. Also, don’t forget to take photos of the area. In cases like these, detailed images and videos could make a massive difference in showing how dangerous the sidewalk truly was at the time of the incident.
Some examples of common sidewalk hazards include:
- Cracks
- Ice and snow
- Uneven pavement
- Debris blocking the way
2. Witness Statements
If your accident occurs in public, chances are others saw it happen. Ask them for their names, contact information, and a detailed summary of what they saw. They can give a neutral perspective on what happened and help strengthen your case. Witnesses may also provide additional information you didn’t notice initially, including how long the hazard was there before the incident.
3. Medical Records
As soon as you can, get medical help on the scene. They’ll evaluate your wounds and look out for any potential long-term injuries that occurred due to the accident. Always save any doctor’s notes, treatment plans, or X-ray images to show that the fall directly caused your injuries and avoid any issues with insurance companies.
4. Incident Reports
If you fall on commercial property, inform the person in charge as soon as possible. This could be a:
- Property owner
- Building owner
- Building manager
- Nearby business
- City agency
Creating an official record of what happened also creates a paper trail and holds those responsible accountable. You’ll have a clear paper trail that’s connected to a specific time, place, and hazard, which avoids any ambiguity.
5. Proof of Hazard Duration
One of the most important parts of a sidewalk accident case in New York is proving how long this hazard existed before your accident. Was the crack there for weeks? Were they previously told to remove any dangerous items from the sidewalk? Did they refuse to de-ice their side of the sidewalk?
To prove this happened, show documentation like older photos, complaints from neighbors, weather reports, or statements. If they were already aware of the problem and still chose to ignore it, they could face serious legal consequences for negligence.
Recently Injured in a Sidewalk Accident?
A sidewalk accident could lead to permanent injuries you may never recover from. This is why filing a claim is an essential next step. Our New York personal injury lawyers will review your case, help you gather evidence, and ensure you receive the compensation you’re rightfully entitled to. Please contact us at (866) 574-0825 to schedule a free consultation with us today.