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MR. LEONARD SLAVIT: A number of people, unfortunately, have accidents involving a trip or a fall. It can happen on a public sidewalk, it can happen in a building.

The law recently changed in New York City where in many instances the city is no longer responsible but the property owner is responsible for defects on the sidewalk. In addition, there are circumstances there the property owner places certain objects on the sidewalk or has a special use of the sidewalk, such as a driveway, where the property owner would be responsible for defects in that area.

The variety of circumstances are many. The point is, these accidents, unfortunately, do take place and the experienced lawyer is able to handle the matter and investigate, do the proper background searches, check for violations, get the proper result.

A number of these incidents also take place in buildings, whether it's a defective stairway. With respect to slip, it depends whether it's wet. Oftentimes it's a rainy condition where the property owner fails to put down a mat. Somebody entering the building slips because it's wet and there's a hard surface on the floor.

There are a variety of situations, as I've mentioned. The best way is to call a lawyer. Speak to an experienced lawyer. We'd be happy to discuss it with you if you've had that problem and be of help.

Please remember that if your accident involves a municipality, time is a factor. There are statutory limitations involved so it's important that your claim be filed timely. It's called a notice of claim. Please contact a lawyer as soon as you're able to. We will review the matter, advise you, prepare the papers timely if the case is viable, and be of assistance.