Reviewed by Laurence P. Banville, Esq.Frequently asked questions
Can a tourist or foreign visitor sue for a personal injury in New York?
Yes. New York courts have jurisdiction over personal injury claims that arise within the state, and non-US citizens and foreign nationals have the same right to sue as any other injured person. Your immigration status, nationality, or country of residence does not affect your legal standing to bring a claim in New York.
What is the deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit as a tourist injured in NYC?
New York imposes a 3-year statute of limitations on most personal injury claims under CPLR §214, and this deadline applies equally to tourists and foreign nationals. The clock starts running on the date of the injury. If you miss this deadline, a court will almost certainly dismiss your case regardless of its merits, so it is critical to consult an attorney as soon as possible.
Do I need to be in New York to pursue a personal injury claim there?
No. Many tourists and international visitors return home before their case is resolved, and New York attorneys routinely handle cases for out-of-state and overseas clients. Communication can be handled remotely, and you would typically only need to return to New York for depositions or trial if the case does not settle beforehand.
What types of accidents commonly injure tourists in New York City?
Common tourist injury claims in NYC include slip and falls on defective sidewalks or in hotels and restaurants, taxi and rideshare collisions, subway and bus accidents operated by the MTA, bicycle accidents, and assault or negligent security incidents. Each type of accident has its own rules under New York law, including special notice requirements for claims involving the City of New York or the MTA, so timely legal advice is essential.