Sanocki, Newman & Turret, LLP Sanocki, Newman & Turret, LLP 2026-10-26T21:59:37Z https://www.sntny.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1303956/2024/09/cropped-SanockiLogoSiteID-32x32.jpg On Behalf of Sanocki Newman & Turret, LLP <![CDATA[NYC pedestrian rights: Liability in crosswalk accidents explained]]> https://www.sntny.com/?p=48780 2026-09-23T15:43:28Z 2026-09-25T13:43:15Z Pedestrian right-of-way laws in the city New York law gives pedestrians the right of way in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. Drivers must stop and yield when a pedestrian steps into a crosswalk. When a pedestrian signal displays "walk," drivers must not enter that crosswalk. Violating them can make a driver legally liable for resulting injuries.

How comparative fault works in New York

New York follows a pure comparative fault rule. Under this rule, a court can find you partially at fault and still allow you to recover damages. The amount you recover simply reduces based on your share of the fault. If a driver holds 80% of the fault, you can recover 80% of your total damages.

Evidence that can strengthen your case

New York City offers several city-specific sources that can strengthen your claim. These sources capture the accident exactly as it happened, providing powerful support for your case. This includes:
  • NYC DOT traffic camera footage from nearby intersections
  • MTA bus dashcam recordings from routes along the accident site
  • Commercial surveillance footage from neighboring businesses
A legal team must request this footage formally because systems often overwrite recordings within days. Acting fast ensures this valuable evidence remains available for your case.

Why time matters after a crosswalk accident

New York law gives injured pedestrians three years to file a personal injury claim against a private partyWhen the claim involves a city entity like the DOT or MTA, the deadlines are much shorter. A Notice of Claim must be filed within 90 days of the accident, and the lawsuit must follow within one year and 90 days. Missing these deadlines can cost you your claim entirely. While these sound generous, camera footage can disappear within days. Witnesses also become harder to locate over time. Starting the legal process early can give your case the strongest foundation for a full recovery.

Understanding your rights as a pedestrian

Many pedestrian accident victims assume partial blame disqualifies their claim entirely. That fear often stops people from pursuing compensation they rightfully deserve. New York's comparative fault rule ensures that fault is shared fairly, not placed entirely on one person. Knowing this can change how you approach the situation after an accident.]]> On Behalf of Sanocki Newman & Turret, LLP <![CDATA[Dashboard cameras can sometimes help crash cases]]> https://www.sntny.com/?p=48748 2026-09-18T12:45:19Z 2026-09-22T14:26:28Z Dashboard cameras, which are often referred to as dash cams, are becoming more common in personal vehicles all across this country. These devices record video from either inside or outside of a vehicle, which means that they can record events that occur before, during, and after a crash. In New York, dash cams are legal and can be used to show what happened during a traffic incident. These cameras aren’t required equipment, but they can be very useful if there is a motor vehicle crash. In many of these cases, factual accuracy is one of the most important facets of the case. Disagreements in these cases may be centered on things like speed, right of way, sudden braking, lane position, or traffic signal status. The dash cam footage can show what actually happened in these situations. 

What can dash cam footage show?

Dash cam recordings are most helpful when they can show the conditions surrounding the crash. This may include traffic flow, lighting, weather, road markings, or the actions of other drivers on the road. These videos can capture the full sequence of events that led to the crash instead of showing only the moment of impact. This is sometimes a significant fact that can sway a case in a certain way.  Courts will typically evaluate dash cam footage in the same manner as other evidence. In order to be used in a legal case, they must be authentic, relevant to the issues in the case, and unaltered. If footage from the dash cam is blurry or incomplete, it may not be as effective in court. In most cases, the footage is most useful when it can clarify disputed issues.  Anyone who plans to use a dash cam in their vehicle should remember to keep it in good condition so the footage will be as clear as possible. Motor vehicle crash cases that include disputed facts can be challenging. Determining if dash cam footage is useful and how to use it might require the assistance of someone familiar with these matters. ]]> On Behalf of Sanocki Newman & Turret, LLP <![CDATA[Why evidence is crucial in a premises liability case]]> https://www.sntny.com/?p=48728 2025-09-08T14:35:38Z 2025-09-10T14:23:11Z What evidence is helpful? There are several forms of evidence that can help support premises liability lawsuits. Many businesses have security cameras. The footage from those cameras could affirm that an incident occurred. If there are no visible cameras nearby, the person who sustained injuries may want to use their mobile phone to take photographs or record video footage of unsafe property conditions. Documenting a spill on the floor, an unsecured, dangerous rug at the entrance way, a leaking refrigeration unit or other slipping/tripping hazards can help establish that the property owner was negligent about facility maintenance. If there are other people present, obtaining their full names and contact information can ensure that there are witnesses who can affirm what happened later. People also generally need to file an incident report with the manager on duty at the business or notify the property owner immediately after getting hurt so that there are internal records of the incident.

Why is evidence so important?

Fault influences liability. Most premises liability lawsuits depend on credible allegations of negligence. The injured person must be able to show that another reasonable person could have identified hazards and addressed them to prevent the incident. They should also keep records of their medical expenses and other losses to validate the need for compensation. Maintaining adequate documentation can make it easier for people to pursue appropriate compensation after a slip-and-fall or similar incident. People hurt on private property often require support as they pursue premises liability lawsuits, and that’s okay.]]> On Behalf of Sanocki Newman & Turret, LLP <![CDATA[How to secure your rights after a product liability injury in NYC]]> https://www.sntny.com/?p=48727 2025-08-28T00:15:47Z 2025-08-28T00:15:47Z When you buy a product, you expect it to be safe. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Sometimes, products can cause harm due to defects. If you've been injured by a defective product in New York City, it's crucial to understand your rights and the steps you need to take to protect them. This guide will help you navigate the legal process involved in product liability cases.

Understanding product liability

Product liability refers to a manufacturer's or seller's responsibility for allowing a dangerous or defective product to reach a consumer’s hands. There are three main types of product liability claims:
  1. Manufacturing defects: These occur when a product deviates from its design. For example, a chair with a missing screw could collapse when used.
  2. Design defects: These are inherent flaws in the product's design. An example might be a coffee maker that overheats and causes burns.
  3. Inadequate warnings or instructions: Sometimes, products lack proper instructions or warnings about their use. For instance, a medication without clear dosage instructions could lead to an overdose.
Each type of defect requires different evidence, so it's important to identify which category your case falls into.

Steps to take after an injury

If you experience an injury from a defective product, taking the right steps can strengthen your claim:
  • Seek medical attention: Your health is the priority. Document your injuries and keep medical records.
  • Preserve the product: Keep the product and any packaging, receipts, and instructions. These can serve as crucial evidence.
  • Document everything: Take photos of your injuries, the product, and the accident scene. Write down what happened while it's fresh in your mind.
  • Report the incident: Notify the manufacturer or retailer about the defect and your injury.
Next, consider consulting with a personal injury attorney. They can help evaluate your case, gather evidence, and represent you in court if necessary.

Navigating the legal process

Understanding the legal process can be complex, but knowing the basics is helpful:
  • Statute of limitations: In New York, you generally have three years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. Acting promptly ensures you don't miss this deadline.
  • Proving your case: To succeed, you must show that the product was defective, the defect caused your injury, and you were using the product as intended.
Finally, remember that pursuing a product liability claim can be challenging, but it is possible to secure compensation for your injuries. By understanding your rights and taking prompt action, you can protect yourself and potentially prevent future harm to others.
Knowing how to respond after a product liability injury is key to protecting your rights. By following these steps and seeking legal guidance, you can navigate the complex legal landscape and hold manufacturers accountable.
]]> On Behalf of Sanocki Newman & Turret, LLP <![CDATA[Navigating the complex landscape of nursing home negligence claims in New York]]> https://www.sntny.com/?p=48726 2025-08-12T22:05:38Z 2025-08-12T22:05:38Z Choosing a nursing home for a loved one is difficult. Even when you think you’ve found a place where you can expect safe, compassionate care for your loved one, unfortunately, negligence can still happen, the effects of which can be incredibly damaging. Knowing how to respond to such mistreatment is essential for families in seeking accountability.

What are the signs of nursing home negligence?

Nursing home negligence isn’t always obvious if you don’t know the signs. Common red flags to look out for include:
  • Poor hygiene: Unwashed clothes, dirty bedding, and lack of personal cleanliness can be indicators of neglect.
  • Unexplained injuries: Bruises, cuts, or fractures that have no clear cause should be cause for concern.
  • Malnutrition or dehydration: Significant weight loss or signs of dehydration may suggest neglect.
  • Emotional withdrawal: Sudden changes in mood or behavior might signal emotional abuse or neglect.
If you notice any of these things in your loved one, start gathering evidence immediately. Evidence will become crucial when you take legal action.

How to gather evidence of nursing home negligence

Proper documentation can strengthen a claim and facilitate legal proceedings. Here’s how to gather high-quality evidence to support your claim:
  • Take photographs: Visual evidence of injuries or poor living conditions can be compelling.
  • Request medical records: These records can provide insights into the care and treatment your loved one has received.
  • Document conversations: Keep detailed notes of interactions with nursing home staff and administration.
  • Collect witness statements: Statements from other residents or employees can support your claim.
Once you have gathered evidence, an attorney can help you take the next steps.

How an attorney can help families affected by nursing home negligence

Navigating the legal system can be daunting. An experienced attorney can help your family understand their rights and guide you through the complexities of nursing home negligence claims. They can also negotiate with insurance companies and represent families in court if necessary. Legal professionals ensure that your loved one's case is handled with the skill and dedication it deserves.
]]> On Behalf of Sanocki Newman & Turret, LLP <![CDATA[Construction accidents in New York: Common examples and tips for victims]]> https://www.sntny.com/?p=48716 2025-05-19T18:27:00Z 2025-05-19T18:27:00Z What are common accidents at construction sites? Construction workers encounter numerous dangers, leading to various types of accidents. Here are some of the most common:
  • Falls: The leading cause of injuries, falls often occur from scaffolding, ladders, or roofs.
  • Struck-by accidents: Workers can be hit by falling objects, equipment, or vehicles.
  • Electrocutions: Contact with live wires or faulty equipment can lead to severe injuries.
  • Caught-in/between accidents: Workers may get trapped between equipment or materials, leading to crushing injuries.
These accidents can result in serious injuries, impacting a worker's ability to earn a living and maintain their quality of life.

What should victims do after an accident?

After suffering an injury on a construction site, taking immediate and appropriate action is essential. Here are steps to follow:
  1. Seek medical attention: Prioritize your health by getting medical help immediately.
  2. Report the injury: Inform your supervisor or employer about the accident as soon as possible.
  3. Document everything: Keep detailed records of the accident, including photos, witness statements, and medical reports.
  4. Consult a lawyer: Speak with a legal professional with experience in construction accidents to understand your rights and options.
Taking these steps helps to better ensure you protect your health and legal rights, paving the way for recovery and compensation.

What are my legal options after a construction accident?

Injured construction workers in New York have several legal avenues to pursue compensation. One of the first is workers’ compensation. This system provides benefits for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault. If negligence by a third party caused the accident, you might also be able to file a lawsuit for additional damages. Construction accidents are unfortunately common but knowing how to respond and what legal options are available can make a significant difference. By understanding the types of accidents and taking the right steps after an injury, workers can protect their health and rights. Legal recourse provides a means to secure compensation, helping to better ensure injured workers can focus on recovery and rebuilding their lives.]]> On Behalf of Sanocki Newman & Turret, LLP <![CDATA[What patients need to know about surgical errors]]> https://www.sntny.com/?p=48713 2025-03-08T20:41:06Z 2025-03-08T20:41:06Z What is a never event? Health care professionals and researchers define surgical never events as errors that are so egregious they should not happen in a well-managed medical practice. Many of these mistakes have life-altering consequences for the patients involved. Some of the most common are also shockingly obvious errors that the surgeon or anyone supporting them during the procedure should be able to identify. In some cases, doctors perform surgery on the wrong part of the body. For example, they might replace the wrong knee joint. Other times, doctors perform the entirely wrong procedure, possibly because they have a full schedule with back-to-back operations. Another common never event involves surgeons accidentally leaving objects inside of patients after a procedure. Any of those mistakes can have major consequences for the patient. They may require a second surgery or may be ineligible for the care that they initially required. They may have a much longer recovery time, a poor prognosis or more functional limitations because of the surgical mistake that occurred.

How can people respond to never events?

Patients who experience gross errors in surgery in their family members may need help validating their concerns that the surgical error they experienced was medical malpractice. Generally speaking, any errors that prompt professionals to ask for a signed waiver after the procedure or that another health care professional could have entirely avoided may constitute malpractice. Patients may also have rights in scenarios where doctors fail to inform them ahead of time of the side effects, risks and failure rate of a procedure. Patients undergoing surgery should provide informed consent with full knowledge of the risks involved. In scenarios where patients were unaware that the procedure was likely to fail or where a surgeon made a major and preventable mistake, they may have grounds for a medical malpractice lawsuit. People hoping to hold surgeons or hospitals accountable for medical errors usually need legal representation while preparing for a medical malpractice lawsuit. Reviewing medical records with a lawyer can be the first step toward medical malpractice litigation. A successful lawsuit can help diminish the lasting consequences generated by a surgical error.]]> On Behalf of Sanocki Newman & Turret, LLP <![CDATA[Winter driving in NYC: Avoiding and responding to crashes]]> https://www.sntny.com/?p=48712 2025-02-28T20:45:41Z 2025-01-26T15:50:28Z Winter in New York City inspires icy roads, snow-covered streets and relatively unpredictable weather, all of which make driving conditions more dangerous than they ordinarily are. As a result, even experienced drivers can struggle with reduced visibility and slick road surfaces.  Thankfully, taking thoughtful precautions can help prevent accidents and keep you safer on the road. With that said, it’s important to acknowledge that accidents can still happen despite one’s personal best efforts. Knowing what steps to take after a crash can protect your rights and help you recover damages accordingly.

Tips for safer driving

There is no way to guarantee that you won’t get into an accident during the winter months. However, there are steps you can take to minimize this risk. They include:
  • Slow Down and Increase Following Distance: Speed limits are set for ideal conditions, but winter roads require extra caution. Slowing down can give you more time to react to sudden stops or sliding vehicles. Keep a greater following distance—at least five to six seconds behind the vehicle in front of you—to allow for longer stopping distances on icy roads.
  • Check Weather and Road Conditions: Before heading out, check NYC’s weather reports and traffic updates. If conditions are especially hazardous, consider postponing your trip or using public transportation.
  • Keep Tires and Brakes in Good Condition: Cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, reducing traction. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread depth to handle snowy or icy roads. 
  • Use Your Lights and Wipers: Snow and fog can reduce visibility. Use your headlights during the day and night, even if visibility seems adequate. Also, ensure that your windshield wipers are in good condition and that your washer fluid is full to keep your windshield clear.
  • Avoid Sudden Movements: Abrupt braking, sharp turns and quick acceleration can cause your vehicle to skid. Make gradual adjustments to maintain control, especially on bridges, overpasses and untreated roads where ice forms quickly.
  • Be Extra Cautious at Intersections: Slippery roads make it harder to stop at red lights or stop signs. Begin braking sooner than usual when approaching intersections and watch for other vehicles that may be sliding.
Should a winter accident still occur despite your best efforts, check yourself and your passengers for injuries and call 911 immediately if medical attention is needed. You’ll also want to call the police. In NYC, reporting an accident is required if there are injuries or significant property damage. A police report can also serve as important documentation for insurance claims and legal action. Speaking with a skilled legal team as quickly as possible can help you safeguard your rights as your situation evolves. ]]> Sanocki Newman & Turret, LLP <![CDATA[Know Your Rights: Wrongful Death Lawsuits]]> https://www.sntny.com/?p=46212 2024-10-30T14:25:49Z 2022-08-04T01:18:09Z The loss of a loved one can have long-term impacts on family members, lasting decades after their passing.  The resulting grief may stop you from going about your daily life as you once had before this tragic event.  Thanks to a newly-passed bill in New York, grieving family members may be able to find a bit of solace by being compensated for the grief and emotional suffering they endured as a result of their loved one’s death. In early June 2022, the New York legislature passed the Grieving Families Act (S74A), which has since been sent to Governor Hochul’s desk where it is anticipated it will be signed into law.  The bill will expand the current allowable compensable damages in wrongful death lawsuits to permit for monetary recovery for grief and emotional damage suffered by close family members of the injured party.  Additionally, the law extends the existing statute of limitations to file a wrongful death case from two years to three and one-half years.  While no amount of money can bring back a loved one, the Grieving Families Act is an overdue update to existing law that will compensate family members for the emotional toll felt as a result of their loved one’s death. Wrongful death cases can range from deaths due to car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace injuries, or defective products amongst a multitude of other scenarios.  Presently, New York law awards compensation for: (a) the decedent’s conscious pain and suffering, and, (b) pecuniary losses resulting from wrongful death, including loss of earnings, loss of financial support and loss of care and guidance to a minor child.  The present system does little to ease the emotional burden felt by grieving family members, since they could not be compensated for the pain they themselves suffered as a result of the wrongful death.  Under the new law, families of wrongful death victims may receive damages for their own emotional losses as well, including loss of affection, grief and anguish, and loss of companionship. For several decades, Sanocki Newman & Turret, LLP has been successful in litigating wrongful death lawsuits.  Please call our firm at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1"] for a free consultation so that we can evaluate your potential case or email us at info@sntlawfirm.com.]]> Sanocki Newman & Turret, LLP <![CDATA[Know Your Rights: When Your Baby is Injured During Labor and Delivery]]> https://www.sntny.com/?p=46238 2024-10-30T14:25:59Z 2022-06-29T00:35:31Z The day you bring a child into the world should be a moment of celebration, however, this momentous occasion can be clouded by devastating, preventable birth injuries that can leave your child with life-long disabilities and may take a great financial toll on your family. Many of these preventable injuries stem from Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), which is a lack of oxygen or blood flow to the brain, occurring most often in infants at or around the time of birth. It is essential that oxygen flow remains uninterrupted during the labor process. How does a lack of oxygen lead to brain damage?
  • Complications such as infection, umbilical cord prolapse, umbilical cord entanglement, placental abruption, and umbilical cord compression can cut off air flow to your baby
    • Anoxia – total lack of oxygen that causes the brain to malfunction
    • Hypoxia – inadequate oxygen delivery to the brain and organ
  • Low Apgar score – at birth doctors and nurses assign a number from 0 to 10, rating the baby’s skin color, heart rate, muscle tone, reflexes, and breathing effort.  A very low Apgar score (0 to 3) lasting longer than 5 minutes may be a sign of deprivation of oxygen. Other signs and symptoms of oxygen deprivation:
    • Too much acid in the blood (acidosis)
    • Amniotic fluid stained with meconium (first stool)
    • A lack of fetal movement
    • Weak /no cry
  • Seizures – When your newborn is deprived of oxygen, cells in the brain can become damaged or die, leading to serious brain damage, resulting in:
    • Cerebral Hemorrhages (bleeding in the brain)
    • Subdural Hemorrhages (bleeding between the brain and the skull)
    • Cerebral Palsy (impairment of the cerebral cortex of the brain which controls bodily movement)
Birth injury can also result from the forcible removal of the infant with the use of forceps or vacuum extraction.  Excessive force or improper use of forceps or vacuum extraction may result in:
  • Stroke (brain hemorrhaging causing brain damage) resulting in physical and neurologic injuries;
  • Erb’s Palsy (damage of the nerves in the neck and shoulders, resulting in partial or full paralysis of the arm, often accompanied by loss of sensation), caused by the stretching of the baby’s neck to the side combined with a downward force of the shoulder during delivery;
  • Klumpke’s palsy (damage of the nerves in the neck and shoulder resulting in paralysis of the forearm, wrist and hand and loss of sensation) caused by the stretching of the baby’s neck to the side combined with a downward force of the shoulder during delivery;
  • Skull fracture
  • Facial nerve palsy
  • Hearing loss
When complications arise, fetal monitoring and neuroimaging to diagnose and prevent birth injuries are critical. An emergency caesarian section or reposition the baby for vaginal birth to expedite delivery and restore oxygen to the infant maybe necessary. Signs and Symptoms of birth injuries:
  • Your baby muscles and extremities have a “floppy” appearance
  • Your baby had bruises, marks, swelling, or abrasions to their face, head or shoulders at time of delivery
  • Your baby required assistance breathing shortly after delivery (ventilation)
  • Your baby’s arm appears limp while their other extremities look normal
  • You baby experienced seizures within the first 48 hours after delivery
Birth injuries can result in life-long disabilities that require round the clock care, including:
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Intellectual deficiencies
  • Developmental delays
  • Epilepsy
  • Movement disorders
  • Hearing and Vision impairment
  • Apraxia (motor speech disorders)
  • Dysfunctions with swallowing, eating, and breathing
  • Executive functioning challenges
  • Learning disabilities
  • Slowed processing speed
  • Autism
  • Visual Processing challenges
  • Gastrointestinal issues and incontinence
  • The gravity of the injuries depends on:
    • How long your baby does not get enough oxygen
    • How low the level of oxygen is
    • How quickly the right treatment is given
If you and your child were the victim of medical malpractice, you may have a right to obtain compensation to help with your baby’s lifelong disability and hold the treating hospital and physicians accountable for negligence. You and your child may recover the following damages: – Lifetime medical care and treatment – Cost of lifetime in-home care – Loss of earning potential – Loss of services (from child to parent) – Loss of enjoyment of life – Disfigurement and scarring – Emotional distress – Pain and suffering Sanocki Newman & Turret, LLP has been successful in litigating birth injury cases. If you or your child has sustained such an injury, you may be the victim of medical malpractice. Please contact Sanocki Newman & Turret so we can evaluate your potential medical malpractice lawsuit by calling us at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-CT-NUMBER-1"] or email us at info@sntlawfirm.com.]]>