Four people were injured when a tree limb unexpected fell on them while they were recreating in a New York City park. The individuals were enjoying a mild day in Riverside Park (near 92nd Street) when a massive limb tore free from a tree standing precariously on a hillside overlooking a shaded rest area and a park bench. The limb struck all the victims as it fell to the ground.
Indeed, two of the victims were pinned beneath the tree and had to be extricated by FDNY responders with chainsaws. The other two suffered cuts, abrasions, and bruising. Three of the victims were taken to nearby St. Luke’s Hospital for treatment.
An investigation into this tree limb accident in New York revealed that city officials had been actively engaged in tree trimming in the area surrounding the accident site but had yet to address any trees in the immediate area in which the limb fell.
A Parks Department representative told media outlets that they would inspect the tree to determine the root cause of this unexpected “limb failure.”
In similar accidents, victims have been able to hold the Parks Department financially liable for the injuries (which includes pain and suffering, unpaid medical expenses and lost wages leading into the future). In such cases, the legal team of the victims was able to demonstrate negligence by conducting the proper investigation and collecting evidence that the City agency failed in its responsibility to inspect problem trees or mitigate potential risks to pedestrians and cyclists in the area.
If you’ve been injured by a falling tree limb in any of New York’s public parks and play areas, you too could potentially be entitled to a settlement or court award. For the compensation you deserve, contact an experienced tree limb accident lawyer in New York City as soon as possible. Call the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel at 800-734-9338 or 212-385-1122 for your free consultation.