In the summer of 2019, a Brooklyn woman was involved in a serious motor vehicle accident. Her case presented complex legal challenges, particularly around the circumstances of the collision, issues that are often left for a jury to decide at trial. Despite these hurdles, Hill & Moin LLP took swift and strategic action on her behalf.
Through thorough investigation and skilled legal advocacy, Hill & Moin secured a court order establishing the defendant’s liability well before the case ever reached a jury. This rare pre-trial determination of fault, in a case where each party claimed the other ran a red light, gave the plaintiff a significant advantage and eliminated much of the uncertainty that typically accompanies litigation in cases of this nature.
Thanks to the firm’s early success, the case was settled for nearly the full amount of the $1,000,000 policy limit. Hill & Moin’s reputation for tenacity, legal skill, and personalized care—reflected in their numerous five-star client reviews—was once again demonstrated in this result, allowing their client to receive critical compensation without the added burden of a lengthy trial.
In the State of New York, there are more than 11 million registered vehicles. On any given day, you may notice thousands of cars passing the roads where you walk. A sidewalk should provide a safe place for pedestrians to stay out of traffic.
Unfortunately, sidewalks are the scene of many accidents in New York City. People with serious injuries are rushed to emergency rooms, sometimes resulting in thousands of dollars in medical bills. In some sad cases, sidewalk accident victims lose their lives.
At Hill & Moin, we understand the financial devastation that accompanies many accidents. Our attorneys can determine who has the legal responsibility for sidewalk defects. Our diligent pursuit of personal injury compensation makes many clients feel like they have a lawyer in the family.
Schedule your free consultation with our compassionate personal injury team today. You can reach a NYC representative 24 hours, 7 days a week, so call us now.
How to Interpret the NYC Administrative Code
An administrative code is a collection of city laws that describe the responsibilities of property owners. The code sets regulations for New York sidewalks to ensure they are safe for walking, using wheelchairs, and pushing strollers.
Rules for commercial property and buildings used for residential purposes
Residential and commercial property owners are responsible for installing and maintaining sidewalks adjacent to their properties. The sidewalks must be kept in a safe condition.
What might sidewalk maintenance responsibilities include? Suppose the sidewalks around their New York City business are broken or raised. The abutting property owners should promptly repair or replace the defective sidewalk flags.
Regulations that apply to city-owned property
New York City owns some sidewalks. It is responsible for maintaining public sidewalks adjacent to:
Certain residential properties, like public housing projects and shelters
Public hospitals and schools
The perimeters of pavement around public parks
Libraries
NYC Agency office buildings
Overpasses, bridges, and traffic medians
The City of New York also replaces millions of square feet of sidewalks in neighborhoods composed mostly of one-, two-, or three-family residential properties.
The City of New York’s Trees & Sidewalks Repair Program can help repair severe issues caused by trees. You can report broken, collapsed, or otherwise damaged sidewalks and defective curbs via NYC311.
When Property Owners Are Held Liable
Sidewalks must be installed according to city specifications. Deviations, like using nonstandard materials, can result in penalties. City officials and the Department of Transportation may also issue citations for sidewalk defects.
Violations include, but are not limited to, hazardous conditions such as:
Property owners must remove snow, ice, and dirt from the sidewalk when necessary. If another party causes damage, the property owner is still responsible for fixing it and paying any related fines.
If you face this issue, follow these steps:
Document the damage and its source
Contact the borough’s permit office to search for construction permits issued on the property if you do not know the source of the damage
Repair and restore the damaged area
Keep your receipts for the repair costs
Once you know who caused the dangerous condition, you can seek repayment. If a city worker or contractor caused the damage, you can file a claim against the City of New York – but you have limited time to do so.
Private contractors or utility workers sometimes damage sidewalks, creating pedestrian trip and fall hazards. You will have to pursue reimbursement from them directly. Yet, filing a claim does not guarantee a settlement.
Besides fines, ignoring unsafe or broken sidewalk flags may lead to problems. Seemingly minor issues can cause major trip-and-fall accidents. According to the City of New York, “holes as small as 1 inch in diameter or sidewalk squares or flags raised as little as ½ inch can cause injuries.”
Property owners may be liable if a sidewalk accident occurs when they did not address sidewalk defects abutting their property. The property owner’s personal injury and property damage insurance may cover the damages. The NYC administrative code states that the city is not liable for injuries caused by “the failure of an owner to comply” with these rules.
When the City Can Be Held Liable
Suppose that New York City was responsible for a specific stretch of sidewalk. You suffered an accident because the city failed to remove hazards in a timely manner. You could receive compensation, but you must prove the city to be at fault.
Constructive notice is a legal principle that could help prove liability. It means the responsible party knew or should have known of a dangerous condition but failed to take reasonable steps to correct it. In our example, your lawyer might consider the following questions to ensure the right party is held liable:
Was it a public sidewalk?
Did someone give the city prior written notice of the problem?
Should the issue have been discovered during routine city inspections?
Did the city give prior notice that the issue would be fixed but miss the deadline?
Was the repair work improperly done?
Was the issue described in public reports?
Are there witnesses who can describe the long-term hazardous condition of the sidewalks?
If you can demonstrate that the government failed to take the proper steps to fix a known problem, it can strengthen your case for compensation.
Why You Should Hire a New York City Personal Injury Attorney
If you are recovering from a sidewalk accident, you may feel overwhelmed by medical bills, lost income, and legal questions. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you make sense of your options. You deserve to know your rights and have someone who understands the law and cares about your future by your side.
Knowledge and resources
Does it seem impossible to determine the liable party under the NYC administrative code? An experienced New York personal injury lawyer can demystify the complex rules of sidewalk maintenance, providing you with peace of mind. An attorney who understands city regulations can handle complicated issues, like exceptions for owner-occupied one- to three-family residential properties.
A New York legal team can investigate the sidewalk accident scene and collect compelling evidence that may seem out of your reach, including:
Proof of any prior complaints or notices of sidewalk defects
With this evidence, your lawyer can help show that a property owner or other responsible party should be held liable for the injuries you suffered.
Easier recovery
Legal cases in NYC take time and energy. Serious injuries like broken bones or other harm from a trip-and-fall can make even simple tasks more difficult.
Having a personal injury lawyer means you do not have to carry the burden alone. Your attorney can handle the legal system while you can focus on rest, treatment, and getting back to your life.
No upfront payments
Contingency fees remove the financial barriers of hiring a lawyer. For you, that means you can start your case immediately without any out-of-pocket costs. You pay only if your lawyer wins or settles.
Discover Your Rights During Your Free Consultation
In New York, keeping sidewalks safe should be everyone’s priority. In certain circumstances, the law places responsibility on a property owner, the city, or another party responsible for maintaining the area. If you were hurt because of sidewalk defects, filing a claim against the liable party can relieve your financial losses.
At Hill & Moin, we know that every case is different. Our Personal Injury Recovery SolutionsⓇ take your needs into consideration when preparing your case. Would you like to learn more?
Take the first step toward justice and schedule a free case review today. New York City laws and deadlines limit the time to take legal action for injuries caused by sidewalk defects.
PJ, a dedicated custodian, was injured on the job when several heavy cans on a delivery cart fell on him, causing significant injuries. He was rushed to the emergency room for urgent medical care, unsure of what to do next. In search of help and answers, PJ contacted the Law Office of Hill & Moin, LLP.
From the moment he reached out, PJ felt he was in good hands. The team at Hill & Moin took the time to explain the merits of his case, clearly outlining the next steps he would need to take to begin a lawsuit and pursue justice. PJ shared that the staff was not only professional but also deeply caring and attentive, making him feel supported every step of the way.
With the firm’s guidance and commitment, PJ’s case concluded with a successful settlement of over $675,000. The outcome brought him relief and a fresh sense of hope. With the compensation he received, PJ is excited to move down south, start a new life, and dive into a new hobby he’s passionate about: remote control cars.
Reflecting on his experience, PJ gave Hill & Moin, LLP a glowing 5-star review on Google, calling the entire process “beautiful.” For PJ, the firm didn’t just win his case—they helped him reclaim his future.
Long Island resident NR enjoys life’s everyday pleasures—going for walks, watching movies, and, most of all, spending quality time with her grandchildren. But one morning, on her way to work, an unexpected and painful accident turned her world upside down. A parking garage gate came down suddenly, striking her over the head and leaving her seriously injured.
NR was soon referred to Hill & Moin, LLP, where the legal team promptly began working on her case. As she focused on her recovery and underwent medical treatment, NR met regularly with the firm’s attorneys, who kept her informed and reassured every step of the way. “They always provided a lot of clarity,” she recalled, grateful for the consistent communication and support during a challenging time.
Thanks to the diligent work of her legal team—including attorney Eric Wittels, Esq.—NR’s case settled for $650,000. She expressed deep appreciation for everyone involved, saying she never had to worry and that the entire staff was “the best.” Their dedication, compassion, and professionalism left a lasting impression, earning Hill & Moin, LLP a glowing 5 out of 5 star review from NR.
Now, with her case behind her and a sense of peace restored, NR is looking ahead with hope and excitement. She dreams of buying a home and starting a brand-new chapter in her life—one filled with comfort, stability, and more time with the people she loves most.
Olga S., a passionate artist and flower gardener, was enjoying an evening walk with her husband when she tripped and fell on a defective sidewalk. The incident left her injured and unsure of what steps to take next. Seeking help, she contacted the personal injury attorneys at Hill & Moin, LLP.
From the start, Olga felt supported by the firm’s knowledgeable and compassionate team. The attorneys clearly explained the legal process and guided her every step of the way. She was especially grateful for the Russian interpreters, who helped her understand case updates and answered all her questions in her native language.
Thanks to Hill & Moin’s dedication, Olga’s case settled successfully, resulting in a monetary recovery of $128,000 for her injuries. The outcome brought her both relief and a sense of justice after a difficult experience.
At the conclusion of her case, Olga praised the firm’s welcoming approach and open-hearted service. She proudly gave Hill & Moin five stars and says she would recommend them to all her friends in need of a personal injury attorney. Olga is optimistic about the future and looking forward to what comes next.
Mr. Howard, a longtime Brooklyn resident, enjoys the simple joys of life—reading his favorite books and spending time crocheting. But one ordinary day took an unexpected turn when, while driving for work, he was struck by another vehicle taking a dangerously wide turn. The crash left him shaken and in need of both medical attention and legal support.
Seeking guidance, Mr. Howard reached out to Hill & Moin, LLP. From the beginning, he felt heard and supported. The team at Hill & Moin ensured he received the necessary medical treatments and met with him regularly to explain the legal process. Their consistent updates and clear communication helped ease the stress of the situation.
“The communication was great and the staff was attentive to my needs,” Mr. Howard shared. With Hill & Moin’s dedication and advocacy, his case ultimately settled for an impressive $1.1 million. Their thorough approach and personal care made a difficult time much more manageable.
Now, with his case behind him, Mr. Howard is looking ahead with optimism. He’s preparing to move to the South, excited to begin a calmer and more peaceful chapter of his life. Reflecting on his experience, he rated Hill & Moin, LLP a perfect 5 out of 5 stars—grateful for the support that helped him move forward.
Mr. Byrd, a retired MTA worker with a passion for shopping, experienced a life-changing moment one winter day when he slipped and fell on his way to a haircut at his local shopping center, injuring his knee. As he began to recover, Mr. Byrd knew he didn’t want to just move on—he wanted to seek legal justice for the pain and disruption he had suffered.
He found Hill & Moin, LLP online and reached out right away. From the very first meeting, Mr. Byrd felt reassured. The attorneys took the time to walk him through the legal process step by step, explaining everything in a way that was easy to understand. The staff was equally courteous and professional, making sure Mr. Byrd felt supported and informed at every stage of the case.
Hill & Moin worked diligently on Mr. Byrd’s behalf, and their hard work delivered results. At the conclusion of the case, Mr. Byrd was awarded $390,000. He described the entire experience as smooth, rewarding, and handled with great care. Most importantly, he felt that his voice had been heard and his case treated with the seriousness it deserved.
With plans to save his settlement and potentially launch his own LLC, Mr. Byrd is now looking ahead with confidence and purpose. When asked how he would rate his experience with Hill & Moin, he smiled and said, “I give them 6 out of 5 stars!”
On a rainy Tuesday afternoon in Manhattan, Maria tapped her phone to request a ride home. She’d had a long shift at the hospital and was eager to rest. Within minutes, a friendly rideshare driver pulled up. But just three blocks into the drive, a distracted taxi ran a red light and slammed into their vehicle. The next moments were a blur—sirens, flashing lights, and an aching pain in Maria’s back.
Sadly, Maria’s story isn’t unique. As rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become part of everyday life in New York City, so have the accidents involving them. While the convenience is undeniable, the aftermath of a rideshare accident can be confusing and overwhelming—especially when you’re trying to figure out what compensation you might be entitled to.
At Hill & Moin LLP, we’ve helped countless New Yorkers just like Maria navigate this exact situation. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, here’s what you need to know about the compensation you may be able to recover—and how to protect your rights every step of the way.
Understanding the Rideshare Landscape in NYC
New York has its own rules when it comes to rideshare companies. Uber, Lyft, and similar services operate under the watchful eye of the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC). This means their vehicles are licensed, and drivers must meet specific standards.
But when an accident happens, the question becomes: Who pays? The driver? The rideshare company? Your own insurance?
The answer depends on the circumstances. If the driver was working at the time—meaning they were logged into the app and either transporting or on the way to pick up a passenger—then the rideshare company’s insurance may apply. These policies can cover up to $1.25 million in liability for bodily injury or death, according to New York State DMV guidance.
That’s good news if you’re hurt—but only if you know how to access it.
Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Victims of rideshare accidents may be eligible to recover compensation for several types of damages. These fall into two main categories: economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
These are the tangible losses you can put a number on:
Medical Expenses: This includes emergency room visits, surgeries, physical therapy, medication, and ongoing care. If your injuries were severe, you might need help from our New York medical malpractice attorneys, especially if your treatment was mishandled.
Lost Wages: If your injuries force you to take time off work—or if you’re unable to return to your job entirely—you may be compensated for the income you’ve lost. Learn more on how we handle complex workers’ compensation cases.
Future Earning Capacity: Sometimes, injuries impact your ability to earn in the future. In those cases, you may be able to seek damages for reduced earning potential.
Property Damage: If your phone, laptop, or other valuables were damaged in the crash, you could be reimbursed for their repair or replacement.
Non-Economic Damages
These are more personal, but no less real:
Pain and Suffering: Chronic pain, limited mobility, or emotional anguish can seriously impact your life. Our team frequently handles these cases under our broader personal injury practice.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Injuries that affect hobbies, travel, or quality time with loved ones can form part of your claim.
Loss of Consortium: In some cases, your spouse may be entitled to compensation for the emotional and physical strain caused by your injuries.
What If the Rideshare Driver Wasn’t at Fault?
Accidents in New York often involve more than one vehicle—and more than one party may share the blame. If another driver was at fault (like in Maria’s case), you might be able to pursue compensation through their insurance or even through underinsured motorist coverage.
The good news? You don’t have to figure this out alone. Our legal team can conduct a thorough investigation, gather police reports and witness statements, and pinpoint exactly who’s responsible—so you can focus on healing.
Time Limits Matter: Don’t Wait to Act
New York has strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims. In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident. However, if a government vehicle was involved, the deadline may be as little as 90 days to file a notice of claim. Learn more about deadlines in our What Makes a Good Case guide.
At Hill & Moin LLP, we know that no two accidents are the same. Maybe your injuries are minor but persistent, keeping you up at night. Maybe they’re catastrophic, changing your life in an instant. Either way, you deserve to be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect—not just by your medical team, but by your legal team, too.
We take the time to listen to your story, explain your rights in plain language, and fight tirelessly to make sure you’re not taken advantage of by insurance companies. Want to know why we’re different? Find out Why Choose Hill & Moin.
Schedule Your “No Worry” Free Legal Consultation Today
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in New York City, we’re here to help. Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver, you have rights—and we’ll fight to protect them.
Let’s talk about your options in a confidential, pressure-free consultation. No confusing legal jargon. No hidden fees. Just honest guidance from a team that cares.
Call us today at (212) 668-6000 Or fill out our contact form to get started.
You’ve been through enough. Let Hill & Moin LLP be the support you need to move forward—stronger, safer, and fully compensated.
Ruth Brown, a dedicated bus driver with a passion for traveling, crocheting, and discovering new foods, never expected her routine day at work to take a life-changing turn. While on the job, Ms. Brown’s bus was struck by another vehicle, leaving her shaken and uncertain about what to do next. Determined to understand her legal options, Ms. Brown reached out to the trusted attorneys at Hill & Moin, LLP.
From the moment she stepped into their office, Ms. Brown felt supported. The attorneys carefully walked her through a clear and compassionate game plan for her personal injury case. Ms. Brown appreciated how informative the team was, especially their commitment to keeping her in the loop every step of the way.
Thanks to the dedication and hard work of Hill & Moin, Ms. Brown’s case was successfully settled for $850,000. With her settlement in hand, Ms. Brown is now excitedly considering a new car and embracing the future with confidence. She describes the team at Hill & Moin as feeling “like family” and didn’t hesitate to leave a glowing 5-star review. “I’d recommend Hill & Moin to everyone—I wouldn’t even think twice,” Ms. Brown says.
Her story is a testament to what’s possible when compassionate legal care meets determined advocacy.
At Hill & Moin LLP, our mission has always been to stand up for the people who are too often overlooked — and that mission was never clearer than in our recent victory on behalf of a young elevator trainee who suffered a catastrophic injury on the job.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, our client — a newly hired apprentice in the elevator industry — was working at a job site when he fell from a ladder due to unsafe conditions. In an instant, a promising career and a young man’s physical future were jeopardized. He had been eager to learn, willing to work, and was showing up to a dangerous site in the middle of a global crisis — all in pursuit of a better life.
Instead, he faced surgeries, chronic pain, and mounting medical bills.
Hill & Moin LLP immediately took on the case, knowing that this client didn’t just need a lawyer — he needed advocates. Our legal team conducted a thorough investigation, bringing in top-tier experts in workplace safety, vocational rehabilitation, and orthopedic injury. Despite the pandemic disrupting court schedules, insurance timelines, and even medical access, we kept the case moving forward with urgency and precision.
We fought back against efforts to minimize his injuries and discount his future earning potential. We refused to let him be treated as expendable or “too inexperienced” to matter. Through aggressive negotiation and ironclad case development, we secured a settlement exceeding $5 million — a result that will allow our client to live with dignity and receive the care he needs for the rest of his life.
This outcome wasn’t just about money. It was about recognition — that an apprentice matters just as much as a foreman. That safety is a right, not a privilege. That when someone gets hurt because of negligence, we will hold the responsible parties accountable — no matter how large or well-defended they are.
What set this case apart was not only the result, but the way we approached it. At Hill & Moin, we take a personal interest in our clients’ recovery — not just legally, but emotionally. We knew our client was scared, in pain, and unsure of his future. We made sure he never had to wonder what came next.
This case is proof that you don’t have to go it alone. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, we treat every client like family — because that’s what they deserve.
If you or someone you know has suffered a serious workplace injury, especially as an apprentice or trainee, contact Hill & Moin LLP today. Let us help you build a safer, more secure future.
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