Each year, countless New York residents take a tumble, but most can get back up and go on with their day. But some slip and fall or trip and fall accidents result in serious injuries. Victims need immediate medical care, and their bills are often considerable. What can you do?
Fortunately, Poltielov Law Firm P.C. is accepting clients who were hurt in a slip or trip accident. We can review your case, compile evidence, and seek compensation from the owner of the property where you fell. Give us a call to learn more. We will do everything possible to get you back on your feet.
Hazards that Send People Tumbling
People can slip or trip almost anywhere. But most are hurt in falls in stores, government buildings, parking lots, and on private property. Some of the more common hazards include:
- Ice
- Snow
- Spilled liquids
- Extension cords
- Uneven floorboards
- Torn carpets
- Poor lighting
- Crumbling or defective staircases
- Trash
- Freshly mopped floors
Many of these hazards were created by the property owner or by another visitor, and the owner failed to warn visitors or fix the hazard. You should not have to suffer financially for their lack of care.
Fall Injuries
Many falls cause no more than a slight bruise. But others cause traumatic injuries, such as concussions, fractures, neck injuries, back injuries, and paralysis. Someone who trips or slips can also injure themselves when they wrench their bodies to avoid the fall. Common injuries include strains, sprains, and pinched nerves.
If you fell down a flight of stairs, you probably suffered an injury with each contact with the steps on the way down. Some falls are even fatal.
Please head to the hospital soon after falling. A doctor can order tests to fully understand the extent of your injuries. You should also keep all medical bills and insurance statements which show the cost of your care.
Can You Sue for Compensation?
Slip/trip and fall cases turn on whether the property owner was negligent in maintaining their property. A key consideration is whether they knew of the hazard that caused you to trip or slip. If they did, and they didn’t try to warn you or fix it, then they are probably liable.
Another consideration is why you were on the property. If you were there legally, then you have a stronger case than if you were trespassing. The law is different for children drawn to the property by an attractive nuisance like machinery or abandoned appliances.
Ideally, you should get a photograph of the hazard that caused your fall. For example, if you slipped on a puddle of water in the grocery store, try to get at least one picture. The same is true if you slip on ice or snow—they can melt in a matter of hours.
Call Us Today For a Free Consultation
An experienced New York slip/trip and fall attorney at Poltielov Law Firm P.C. can review the facts of your case and discuss the odds of receiving a settlement. Contact us or call us now at 718-880-2911.