Many people suffer slip and fall accidents at some point in their life. A slip and fall can result in serious, life-altering injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, neck, back, and spine injuries. If you have been involved in such an accident, you may be wondering about your legal options for reimbursement.
Your Legal Rights in a Slip and Fall Accident
If you have experienced a slip and fall, you may be entitled to secure remuneration for your damages and injuries through the Premises Liability Law. The property owners and managers of residential and commercial properties are responsible for keeping the building and the surrounding areas safe at all times for patrons and visitors. If the property owner’s negligence or the party responsible for maintaining safety has caused your fall, you are eligible to sue them and recover reimbursement with the assistance of experienced slip and fall lawyers in New York.
Major Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip, trip, and fall accidents can occur anywhere right from your personal residence to public roads, malls, restaurants, offices, schools, parks, museums, hospitals, theatres, any other property, or even the sidewalk. Some of the most common causes of slip and fall injuries are:
- Wet or slippery floors
- Uneven pavements
- Crumbling stairs
- Debris or hazardous obstructions on pathways
- Poorly lit stairs and walkways
- Elevator or escalator malfunction
- Exposed electrical wiring
Steps to Take Right After Your Slip and Fall
There are several steps that you should follow after your slip and fall accident:
Seek Medical Assistance: Prioritize your health after your accident. Get all your injuries inspected by a medical professional right after your fall. It is crucial to understand that some injuries may not be evident immediately after your accident. Even if you believe that your injures are minor, get yourself checked by a doctor and maintain official documentation of your diagnosis.
Report the Accident: Next, report the accident to the property owner, landlord, or manager. Remember to ask the person in-charge to make a written report of the incident and obtain a copy of this report for your own records.
Document Everything: Ensure to collect photographs of the scene of your fall, including dangerous obstacles, floor or stairway conditions, icy patches, or any other hazardous conditions that contributed to your fall. If any eyewitnesses were present at the scene, collect their contact information as their testimony can prove crucial to secure your compensation. Also, write down your recollection of the incident, including details about the date, time, and any other pieces of information that can prove helpful for your claim.
Hire an Attorney: Contact a personal injury lawyer who can help you prove negligence and file your personal injury claim. An experienced slip and fall accident lawyer can assess the incident and help you determine if the property owner failed to maintain safe conditions. A seasoned attorney will work relentlessly to bring justice, negotiate settlements on your behalf and help you avoid mistakes that can prevent you from securing the compensation you rightfully deserve.
