New York City is one of the most visited destinations in the world, attracting millions of tourists each year. But accidents can happen anywhere, and visitors may find themselves injured due to someone else’s negligence. If you’re a tourist who has been injured while exploring Manhattan, Brooklyn or The Bronx, you may be wondering: Can I sue for my injuries? The answer is yes.
Tourists have the same legal rights as residents when it comes to filing a personal injury claim. At Proner & Proner, the leading law firm in New York, we tell you what you need to know.
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Understanding Your Rights as a Tourist
As a tourist, you have legal protections if you’re injured due to someone else’s negligence. Whether it’s a car accident, a slip and fall, or an injury caused by hazardous conditions at a construction site, you have the right to seek compensation. New York law allows injured parties to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.
It’s important to remember that personal injury laws vary by state, and New York has specific regulations governing how claims are handled. Regardless of where you’re from, you can file a lawsuit in New York courts as long as the accident occurred within the state.
What Types of Accidents Can Tourists Sue For?
Tourists can file personal injury claims for various types of accidents, including:
- Traffic Accidents: If you’re hit by a car or a truck while walking, cycling, or riding in a taxi, Uber, or other vehicle, you may have a claim against the at-fault driver or company.
- Slip and Fall Incidents: If you slip on a wet floor in a hotel, restaurant, or shopping center due to negligence, you may have a valid personal injury claim.
- Construction Accidents: If you’re injured by falling debris, unsafe sidewalks, or hazards near construction zones, you may have grounds to sue contractors or property owners.
- Public Transportation Accidents: If you’re injured on a bus, subway, or ferry due to negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.
- Hotel and Restaurant Accidents: If unsafe conditions in your hotel or a dining establishment cause your injury, you may be able to seek damages.
What Should Tourists Do After an Accident in New York?
If you’re injured in an accident while visiting New York, taking the right steps can protect your legal rights and improve your chances of securing fair compensation.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health comes first. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get medical attention. Medical records serve as crucial evidence in personal injury claims. Don’t worry about medical bills: If the accident wasn’t your fault, our experienced lawyers can help you recover the compensation needed for hospital expenses, medical procedures, and doctor visits.
Report the Incident
Depending on the type of accident, you should report it to the appropriate authority:
- Car accidents: Call 911 and ensure a police report is filed
- Slip and fall incidents: Notify the property owner or manager
- Public transportation accidents: Report the incident to the transit authority.
Always request a copy of any official reports for your records.
It doesn’t matter where you’re from—if you were injured in an accident while visiting New York, you have the right to take legal action. With 30 years of experience winning millions for my clients, I’m here to help. Reach out to me today.
Gather Evidence
Document as much as possible:
- Take photos and videos of the scene, including any hazardous conditions, involved vehicles, and visible injuries.
- Collect names and contact details of witnesses.
- Keep records of medical treatments, prescriptions, and any expenses related to the accident.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies Without Legal Representation
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Do not accept any settlement offers or make statements without first consulting a personal injury attorney. Anything you say to an insurer could be used to weaken your claim.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
Navigating the legal system in a foreign country or state can be overwhelming. Our experienced personal injury attorney in New York can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Call us now for a free consultation:
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All You Have To Do Is Call 212-986-3030 To Receive Your Free Case Evaluation.
Can a Tourist File a Lawsuit After Returning Home?
Yes, you can still file a lawsuit in New York even after returning to your home country or state. In many cases, your physical presence is not required for legal proceedings. Your attorney can handle most aspects of your case remotely, and in some instances, you may be able to provide testimony via video conference.
It’s essential to act quickly, as New York has a statute of limitations for personal injury cases. Generally, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim, but exceptions may apply. Consulting an attorney as soon as possible ensures you don’t miss critical deadlines.
Tourist without VISA: what you need to know
If you’re in New York without a visa and have an accident, you still have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. Personal injury laws protect everyone, regardless of immigration status, so you can file a claim for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering without worrying about deportation.
New York courts don’t ask about your immigration status when handling these cases, and lawyers are required to keep your information confidential.
However, the legal process can be complex, so having an experienced personal injury attorney by your side is crucial. At Proner & Proner, we have 60 years of experience helping injured tourists, including those without legal status, fight for the compensation they deserve.
How Proner & Proner Can Help
At Proner & Proner, we understand how difficult it can be to deal with an injury while far from home. With over 60 years of experience in personal injury and accident cases, we are committed to helping victims get the justice they deserve. We have successfully represented tourists from various countries and states, ensuring they receive fair compensation.
Our team handles every aspect of your case, from investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing you in court. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case.
If you or a loved one has been injured while visiting New York, contact Proner & Proner today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery.
Tourism in New York: what you need to know
New York City continues to be a premier global tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors annually. In 2024, the city welcomed approximately 64.3 million tourists, marking a 3.5% increase from the previous year and positioning it as the second-highest tourist count in the city’s history.
This surge in tourism is driven by both domestic and international travelers. Notably, visitors from the United Kingdom topped the international list, with over 1 million British tourists exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and diverse neighborhoods.
Other leading countries contributing to the influx of international visitors include Canada, France, Brazil, and Italy. The city’s vibrant culture, world-class attractions, and dynamic events continue to captivate tourists from around the globe, reinforcing New York City’s status as a must-visit destination.
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- United Kingdom: Approximately 1.1 million visitors.
- Canada: Around 1 million visitors.
- France, Brazil, and Italy: Each contributing over 700,000 visitors.
- China: About 609,000 visitors.
- Germany, Mexico, and Australia: Each accounting for approximately 500,000 visitors.
Visiting New York from any of these countries and had an accident? Call us now! We are your best ally.
We return our clients’ phone calls. We are available 24/7, 365 days a year. I give out my personal cell phone number to all my clients, and I tell them they can feel free to contact me at any time. That’s what makes us different.
