We Hold Property Owners Accountable
Many people blame a slip-and-fall accident on their own carelessness or clumsiness. They suffer silently and take no action. But the law is clear that businesses and other property owners have an obligation to the safety of visitors.
The personal injury attorneys of Alpert, Slobin & Rubenstein, LLP, stand up for the rights of people who were injured by dangerous property conditions. We have obtained good recoveries for slip and falls and other premises liability claims across New York City, Long Island, Westchester and throughout the state of New York.
What made you slip or trip? Explore your possible personal injury claims in a free consultation. Our firm can provide services in Spanish, Russian and Urdu. Se Habla Español / Мы говорим на русском
Experienced Representation For Slip-And-Fall Accident Victims
Under New York premises liability law, owners and proprietors have a duty to the public to make sure their property is reasonably safe. Alpert, Slobin & Rubenstein, LLP, has successfully sued “big box” stores and other businesses, apartment complexes, property management companies, homeowners and government entities.
You may have a slip-and-fall or trip-and-fall claim if you were injured as a result of:
- A slippery floor with no warning signs
- Cords, debris or other tripping hazards
- Torn carpets or unsecured rugs
- Broken or rotted stair steps
- Missing or broken handrails
- Unexpected step-ups or drop-offs
- Poor lighting in a stairwell or hallway
- Uneven sidewalks or parking lot potholes
- Snow and ice accumulations
- Other unsafe conditions
When Are Owners Responsible?
To prevail in a personal injury claim, we have to prove three main elements: (A) There was a defect or unsafe condition that posed a hazard. (B) The hazard caused serious and lasting injury, such as a bone fracture, ankle sprain, back injury or head injury. (C) The owner knew or should have known of the danger and had a reasonable opportunity to correct it or warn people.
Commercial properties and residential landlords have the highest obligation to safety. Homeowners also have a duty to safety, such as the obligation to clear snow and ice from the walkway in timely fashion. The city of New York and other municipalities can be sued for slip and falls, but there are different rules when bringing injury claims against a government entity, including a short window to file notice of a claim.
Frequently Asked Questions About New York Slips And Falls
Slip-and-fall accidents can lead to tragic consequences. It is important to have as much information as possible about the claims process. Here are the answers to some significant questions:
How long do I have to file a slip-and-fall injury in New York?
You typically have three years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury claim, although there are some exceptions to that rule. If the slip and fall occurred on government-owned property, you must file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident, and you only have one year and 90 days to file a lawsuit against the government entity.
What should I do if an insurance company offers me a slip-and-fall settlement?
Do not rush to accept. Insurance companies usually only make an offer to settle quickly when they hope to minimize their losses, so the offer is likely to be far lower than what your claim is worth. Consult a personal injury attorney right away to that they can assess the true value of your case and protect your interests.
How much can I expect to receive in compensation for a slip-and-fall injury?
The amount depends upon the severity of your injuries, your medical experiences, your lost wages, the other party’s degree of negligence, each party’s willingness to negotiate and the limits of the insurance coverage involved. Settlements can range from a few thousand dollars to hundreds of thousands or more.
Am I eligible for compensation if I was injured on New York City-owned property due to hazardous conditions or negligence?
Yes – but it is critically important to follow the procedural requirements, such as filing a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the accident. Otherwise, you forfeit your right to make a claim forever.
What evidence is important to gather after a slip-and-fall accident?
Incident reports filed by the property manager or owner, witness statements from those who saw the fall or knew about the hazardous conditions, medical records from first responders and treating physicians and photos or video of the accident or the scene can all be critical.
Committed To Your Full Compensation
Our lawyers have the resources and decades of combined experience to hold property owners responsible for injuries resulting from their negligence. We do not take no for answer, especially when our clients are dealing with medical bills, lost wages and the disabling effects of a slip and fall.
Call our Bronx law office at 646-978-5114 to arrange a free consultation, or complete our email form, and we will respond soon. We can also provide legal services in Russian, Spanish or Urdu. Se Habla Español / Мы говорим на русском