Introduction

Every day, millions of New Yorkers walk the city’s sidewalks without thinking twice. But what happens when the sidewalk you trust is cracked, uneven, or falling apart — and suddenly, you’re the one who falls?

At Kari Law Group, PLLC, we represent people who’ve been hurt because someone didn’t do their job — whether that’s a landlord, a business, or even the City of New York. If you slipped, tripped, or fell on a broken or poorly maintained sidewalk, you may be entitled to real compensation — and we’re here to help you get it.

Sidewalks Are the Property Owner’s Responsibility — Not Yours

In New York City, most sidewalks are not maintained by the city. They’re the responsibility of the building or business owner adjacent to them.

That means:

• If you fall in front of a storefront, the store or commercial landlord may be responsible.

• If it happens in front of an apartment building, the property owner or management company may be liable.

• If it’s outside a government property — like a school, park, or city office — the City of New York may be the one to blame.

At Kari Law Group, PLLC, we investigate each case carefully. We find out who owns the sidewalk, who neglected it, and who should pay for your injury.

Not Every Crack Is a Case — But Many Are

New York law defines a dangerous sidewalk defect as one that creates a clear risk of harm to pedestrians. You may have a valid case if your injury involved:

• A large hole or missing section of pavement

• Slabs that are uneven by more than ½ inch

• Loose or rocking concrete blocks

• A sidewalk uplifted by tree roots

• Ice or snow that was not cleared within the legally required time

• Broken utility covers or construction hazards

These are not just minor issues — they’re violations of safety laws. If a property owner knew (or should have known) about the condition and failed to fix it, you can take legal action.

You Have a Right to Compensation — Even if You’re Not a U.S. Citizen

At Kari Law Group, PLLC, we often hear this question:

“Can I sue if I’m undocumented or visiting from another country?”

Yes, you can. The law protects everyone in New York, regardless of immigration status. Whether you’re a tourist, a delivery worker, or someone just walking home from work — if a dangerous sidewalk caused your injury, you have the same rights as anyone else.

What to Do Right After the Fall

Your actions after the injury can make or break your case. Here’s what we recommend:

1. Take clear photos of the sidewalk defect from multiple angles

2. Document your injuries — bruises, swelling, or bleeding

3. Call 911 or visit a doctor immediately

4. Note the exact location — address, cross-streets, or nearby stores

5. Get witness names if anyone saw the fall

6. Save your shoes and clothes — they may become evidence

7. Contact Kari Law Group, PLLC as soon as possible

The sooner we start working on your case, the easier it is to collect evidence and file the correct legal documents.

Time Is Limited — Especially if the City Is Involved

If the City of New York is responsible (for example, the fall happened near a city building or park), you must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident. This is a strict deadline.

Even for private properties, there are time limits to start a lawsuit — usually three years, but that can vary. The safest move is to talk to a lawyer immediately so you don’t miss any deadlines.

What Can You Recover in a Sidewalk Injury Case?

Every case is different, but injured clients may receive compensation for:

• Medical bills (ER visits, surgery, therapy)

• Lost income from missed work

• Pain and suffering

• Long-term disability or reduced mobility

• Emotional distress

• Out-of-pocket costs (medication, transportation, etc.)

We fight to get you the maximum possible recovery, and we don’t charge you a single dollar unless we win your case.

We Speak Your Language and Treat You Like Family

Our team at Kari Law Group, PLLC is proud to serve clients in multiple languages — because clear communication builds trust.

We can explain your case in:

✅ English

✅ Spanish (Español)

✅ Russian (Русский)

✅ Chinese (中文)

✅ Uzbek (Oʻzbek)

✅ Tajik (Тоҷикӣ)

✅ Georgian (ქართული)

You’ll understand every step of the process, and we’ll be with you the whole way.

Call Kari Law Group, PLLC Today

If you’ve been hurt on a broken sidewalk — don’t walk it off. Don’t ignore it. Call us.

📞 (718) 395-1818

🌍 karilaw.com

📍 In-person meetings in NYC or remote consultations available.

Let Kari Law Group, PLLC fight for the justice — and compensation — you deserve.