Can You Sue NYC for Poor Roadway or Traffic Signal Design?

Can You Sue NYC for Poor Roadway or Traffic Signal Design?

Hill & Moin represents injury victims across New York City who were harmed in accidents caused by dangerous road conditions, defective traffic signals, or poor roadway design. Many people assume the city cannot be sued, but under New York law, government entities can be held accountable in certain personal injury cases when unsafe infrastructure causes harm.

If a car accident or other serious incident occurred because of poor road design or improperly maintained traffic signals, you may have legal options.

When the City May Be Liable for an Accident

New York City has a duty to design, install, and maintain roadways, traffic signals, and street signs in a reasonably safe condition. When that duty is breached and an accident occurred as a result, the city may be held liable under municipal liability law.

Examples of potentially dangerous roadway conditions include:

• Poor road design that creates confusion or blind spots
• Improperly maintained or malfunctioning traffic signals
• Missing or obscured road signs or street sign warnings
• Burned out streetlights reducing visibility
• Uneven pavement, debris, or poorly maintained bridges
• Road construction zones without proper warnings

These conditions can cause drivers to lose control, enter oncoming traffic, or fail to react in time to avoid a crash.

How Sovereign Immunity Affects NYC Injury Claims

New York follows the doctrine of sovereign immunity, which limits when government agencies can be sued. However, this immunity is not absolute.

Under New York City and York State law, the city can be sued if:

• It created the dangerous condition
• It had prior written notice of the condition
• The accident was caused by improper design or maintenance

Many municipal liability cases succeed when evidence shows the city failed to act within a reasonable timeframe.

Accidents Commonly Linked to Poor Road or Signal Design

Poor roadway or traffic signal design can contribute to many types of accidents, including:

• Motor vehicle accidents at confusing intersections
• Vehicle accidents caused by missing stop sign placement
• Car accidents involving unclear traffic signals
• Accidents caused by road poorly maintained bridges
• Crashes linked to burned out streetlights

Such accidents often result in severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and other long-term conditions.

Injuries and Damages in These Cases

Accidents caused by poor road design can result in significant harm. Injury victims may suffer:

• Serious injuries or severe injuries
• Long-term medical treatment needs
• Lost income due to inability to work
• Property damage and vehicle damage
• In fatal cases, funeral expenses

Medical costs, ongoing care, and the need to be properly diagnosed by a medical professional all factor into potential compensation.

Who May Be the Responsible Party?

In these cases, the party responsible may include:

• New York City
• A governmental subdivision
• Other government agencies
• Private parties or business entities involved in road construction
• Municipal vehicles or contractors

Determining the responsible party often requires investigation and evidence gathering.

Strict Deadlines for Filing Claims Against NYC

Claims against New York City are subject to strict deadlines. In most cases:

• A Notice of Claim must be filed within 90 days
• Lawsuits must be filed within specific statutory limits

Missing these deadlines can bar recovery entirely, making early legal action critical.

What Evidence Matters in These Claims

To pursue compensation, accident victims should gather evidence as soon as possible, including:

• Photos of the accident scene and road conditions
• Witness statements
• Medical records
• Proof of similar accidents in the same area
• Documentation showing the city had notice of the condition

Victims document details, obtain contact information, and preserve evidence whenever possible.

Can You Recover Compensation?

If the city is held liable, potential compensation may include:

• Medical costs and future care
• Lost income
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering

Each personal injury case depends on its facts, the extent of injuries, and whether the city’s actions caused the accident.

Why Legal Representation Matters

These cases are complex and involve unique rules that do not apply to other personal injury lawsuits. An experienced attorney understands:

• Municipal liability law
• Filing claims against government entities
• How sovereign immunity applies
• How to pursue compensation effectively

Proper legal representation helps ensure claims are filed correctly and on time.

Speak With Hill & Moin About Your Case

If you were injured in an accident caused by poor roadway or traffic signal design in New York City, Hill & Moin can help you understand your legal options and whether the city can be held liable.

To discuss your case and seek justice, call Hill & Moin at (212) 668-6000 today for a free consultation.