New York § 4 - 4Assumption of risks; contributory negligence, when a question of fact
Full text of New York New York Consolidated Laws § 4 — 4Assumption of risks; contributory negligence, when a question of fact, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 4. 4Assumption of risks; contributory negligence, when a question of fact
§ 4. Assumption of risks; contributory negligence, when a question of fact. An employee by entering upon or continuing in the service of the employer shall be presumed to have assented to the necessary risks of the occupation or employment and no others. The necessary risks of the occupation or employment shall, in all cases arising after the first day of September, nineteen hundred and ten, be considered as including those risks, and those only, inherent in the nature of the business which remain after the employer has exercised due care in providing for the safety of his employees, and has complied with the laws affecting or regulating such business or occupation for the greater safety of such employees. In an action brought to recover damages for personal injuries or for death resulting therefrom received after the first day of September, nineteen hundred and ten, owing to any cause, including open and visible defects, for which the employer would be liable but for the hitherto available defense of assumption of risks by the employee, the fact that the employee continued in the service of the employer in the same place and course of employment after the discovery by such employee, or after he had been informed of the danger of personal injury therefrom, shall not be, as matter of fact or as matter of law, an assumption of the risk of injury therefrom, but an employee, or his legal representative, shall not be entitled under this article to any right of compensation or remedy against the employer in any case where such employee knew of the defect or negligence which caused the injury and failed, within a reasonable time, to give, or cause to be given, information thereof to the employer, or to some person superior to himself in the service of the employer, or who had intrusted to him some superintendence, unless it shall appear on the trial that such defect or negligence was known to such employer, or superior person, prior to such injuries to the employee; or unless such defect could have been discovered by such employer by reasonable and proper care, tests or inspection.
Source: official New York text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About New York § 4
What does New York Consolidated Laws § 4 cover?
Section 4 ("4Assumption of risks; contributory negligence, when a question of fact") is part of the New York Consolidated Laws, the codified statutory law of New York. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite New York § 4?
A common citation format is "New York Consolidated Laws § 4" (New York). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of New York law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New York official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New York attorney.
How does New York § 4 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New York can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in New York.