So far in 2021, the New York City winter has been especially harsh. Not a week seems to go by without there being some form of inclement weather from freezing rain to accumulating snow. Combined with low temperatures, this puts all the pieces in place for the...
Premises Liability Defense
How can landlords protect themselves when renting property?
Being a landlord can be incredibly difficult, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. After all, the New York rental market is the most expensive in the entire world, with the only exemptions being San Francisco and Hong Kong. And, these prices are often the reason...
Lawsuit blames property owner for sidewalk collapse into rat den
There are certain aspects of living in a large city like New York that can be worrisome. While it might sound like a nightmare for a person to fall through the sidewalk and land on a nest of rats, it did happen, leaving a man injured and traumatized. After this type...
Comparative fault can protect store from slip-and-fall liability
Retail store owners, and other types of property owners have a duty to take reasonable steps to protect invitees (e.g. customers) who have entered their property legally from hazardous conditions. Generally, this requires store owners to: Regularly inspect the...
What should I know about the plain view doctrine?
If you are a property owner who is looking to reduce premises liability, understanding the “plain view” doctrine is a must. Most commonly, any premises liability claim involving a static defect will also invoke the plain view doctrine. According to FindLaw, the plain...
Liability in the age of outdoor dining
Restaurant owners face several types of risks during regular service. From food to property, safety is a significant factor when operating a restaurant. However, as restaurant owners get creative to keep their doors open, they must also consider liability with fresh...
What a plaintiff must prove in a premises liability claim
When someone falls and suffers an injury on the property of someone else, they may file a premises liability claim in an attempt to get money to cover their injuries. Such claims cost property owners and insurance companies considerable money each year, even though...
To whom do I owe a degree of care on my property?
When it comes to premises liability in New York, you may hear that liability rests on the degree of care you owe to the injured party. But what is a degree of care when it comes to the law, and to whom do you owe it? Understanding state negligence and liability laws...
Suggestions to reduce the risk of a premise liability lawsuit
Business owners in New York value the loyalty of their patrons and are constantly finding innovative ways to encourage more people to consider their products and services. Part of their ability to attract and maintain loyal customers is by providing a comfortable and...
When is your business responsible for a slip and fall injury?
A premises injury lawsuit can be quite costly for your business. If someone falls at your warehouse, office or retail location, he or she can seek damages for medical bills, lost wages and other costs. Understand the extent of your potential liability if your company...