Sidewalk Grates & Cellar Doors Can Cause Serious Pedestrian Accidents

While many pedestrian accidents that happen while walking down city sidewalks or crossing the street may be minor, others can lead to severe injuries. Sidewalk grates and poorly fastened cellar doors can send unsuspecting pedestrians or workers tumbling into dark vaults below. People may also stumble over poorly fitted manhole covers, gas caps, and other embedded sidewalk objects. Fortunately, New York City rules and regulations, along with state case law, recognize the need to provide compensation when property owners are negligent. What follows is a general look at liability issues pertaining to sidewalk and street injuries and a summary of some actual...