Walking On Public Streets

Summary

Public streets are accessible to everyone, and homeowners cannot legally prevent you from walking there. If you accidentally touched a car without causing damage, you are not liable. If the homeowner harasses you, consider reporting it to local authorities. In your report, include details of the incident and assert your right to walk on public streets. If you and your companion have intellectual disabilities, ensure your safety and seek further assistance if needed.

Full Conversation

My name is Patrick I'm * from Suffolk County New York *
Nice to meet you, Patrick! How can I assist you with your legal issue today?
Some guy with a fuming mad face said that what are you guys doing walking in people's driveways and that I touched his car I never want to see you in this neighborhood ever again. The reason why I walked on the guys driveway was because the road has no sidewalks and I wanted to prevent getting hit by a car. I only walked on the part that borderlines the street. There are no sidewalks and we were concerned about traffic. The homeowner cannot legally prevent me from walking in the neighborhood or on public streets. Public streets are open to everyone, and we have the right to walk there. Public streets remain accessible to everyone, and the homeowner's statement about not wanting to see me in the neighborhood has no legal weight.
Hey Patrick! You're right, public streets are open to everyone and the homeowner cannot legally prevent you from walking there. Just a quick question: did you physically touch the homeowner's car or cause any damage to it?
I might have touched it by accident but I never damaged it
Hey Patrick! Since you only touched the car accidentally and didn't cause any damage, you are not liable for any damages. If the homeowner continues to harass you, you might consider reporting it to local authorities.
Would you like more information on how to handle this situation legally in New York?
Give me an example of what I can say in report
Case Rating: *
Hey Patrick! Here's an example of what you can say in a report to local authorities:
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To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to report an incident that occurred on [date] in Suffolk County, New York (*).
While walking along the street without sidewalks to avoid traffic, I accidentally touched a car parked in the driveway of a homeowner. I did not cause any damage to the vehicle. The homeowner confronted me aggressively and stated that I should not walk in the neighborhood or on his driveway. His manner was intimidating and threatening.
I believe his behavior constitutes harassment as public streets are accessible to everyone. I request that this matter be investigated to prevent further incidents.
Thank you for your assistance.
Sincerely,
Patrick [Your Last Name]
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Remember to adjust the details as necessary. Would you like additional help with anything else?
Me and Dale are mentally disabled with intellectual disability
Case Rating: *
Hey Patrick, it's important for you and Dale to feel safe while walking around. If the homeowner continues to harass you, you should definitely consider reporting it. If you need more assistance, feel free to ask!