New York City’s diverse landscape, from the crowded sidewalks of Manhattan to the busy corners of Brooklyn, presents unique challenges. With over 52,000 hospitalizations each year due to slip and fall incidents, it’s clear that these accidents are a pressing issue.
With over 6.9 million people across the U.S. being treated for fall-related injuries in 2021, the risk is ever-present. And Manhattan is no different, from slick sidewalks after a rainy day to uneven pavements in busy areas.
Our New York City slip and fall lawyer understands the impact such accidents can have on your life. We're committed to offering a sympathetic ear and the legal support slip and fall accident you need to secure the compensation you deserve.
Don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Contact us for a free consultation today, and let us help you get back on your feet.
Do You Have a Case?
When you've been injured due to a slip and fall accident, it's natural to wonder if New Yorkers have a case. To pursue a personal injury accident case, several key elements must be in place:
- Duty of Care: In New York, property owners are generally required to maintain their property and keep it free of hazards that could lead to a slip or fall.
- Breach of Duty: Once established that a duty of care existed, the next step is determining if that duty was breached. This could involve a negligent property owner failing to address a known hazard, like a wet floor or uneven pavement, that led to your accident.
- Causation: This connects the breach of duty to your injury. You'll need to show that the property owner's negligence directly caused your slip-and-fall accident and resulting injuries. This might involve evidence like witness statements, security footage, or medical records.
- Damages: Finally, accident victims of a slip and fall must demonstrate that they suffered damages due to the fall. Damages include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Without proof of damages, there isn't a case to pursue.
If these elements are present, you may have a solid case to file a compensation claim.
Damages You Can Recover
If you've been injured in a slip and fall accident, you may be entitled to recover various types of slip and fall damages. Understanding these can help you know what compensation you might be eligible for:
- Economic Damages: These are the tangible financial losses you’ve suffered due to the accident. Economic damages include medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and any future earnings you may lose if you cannot work. They also cover out-of-pocket expenses like transportation to medical appointments.
- Non-Economic Damages: Not all damages are tied to a specific dollar amount. Non-economic damages compensate you for the pain and suffering you’ve endured if you experience emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and other intangible harms. These are often more challenging to quantify but are just as important in your recovery.
- Punitive Damages: In some cases, the court may award punitive damages. These are not meant to compensate you for your losses but to punish the negligent party for particularly reckless or egregious behavior. While punitive damages are less common, they can significantly increase the total compensation in your case.
You May Be Entitled to Workers’ Compensation
You may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits if you've been injured in a slip-and-fall accident while on the job. These benefits are designed to provide financial support and cover your medical expenses while you recover from your injuries.
Workers’ compensation typically covers:
- Medical Expenses: All necessary medical treatment related to your injury, including hospital bills, doctor visits, physical therapy, and medication, should be covered by workers’ compensation.
- Lost Wages: If your injury prevents you from working, you may receive some of your lost wages while you cannot work.
- Permanent Disability: If your injury leads to a permanent disability, you may be entitled to additional compensation for the long-term impact on your ability to work and earn a living.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: If you cannot return to your previous job, workers’ compensation may also cover vocational training to help you learn new skills and find alternative employment.
- Death Benefits: In the unfortunate event that a workplace accident caused by a trip and fall leads to a fatality, workers’ compensation can provide death benefits to the deceased worker's dependents.
How to Get in Touch With Us
We’re here to help you with your personal injury case, and there are several ways to reach out. You can call us at (718) 521-2251 or fill out our online contact form to speak directly with one of our team members.
We’re always ready to listen and provide guidance. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today
Meet Your New York City Slip and Fall Attorneys
Paul Ajlouny
Paul Ajlouny is a dedicated slip-and-fall injury attorney with extensive experience representing clients across New York State and achieving favorable outcomes. A St. John’s University graduate, he began his legal career as an associate with the renowned Daniel Galinson, and his reputation for excellence quickly grew.
Mr. Ajlouny is a tenacious and dedicated attorney who takes pride in offering personalized attention to each case, understanding that every client’s situation is unique. The firm he leads has recovered over $150 million on behalf of its clients, reflecting their dedication and success in personal injury law.
Michael Levitz
Michael Levitz is a distinguished NYC personal injury attorney known for his exceptional litigation skills and unwavering commitment to clients. He is dedicated to educating his clients about their legal rights and the steps involved in their cases.
Mr. Levitz brings a competitive edge to his practice, drawing on his background as a former competitive athlete to take on large insurance companies and well-funded opponents. His proactive approach includes regular communication with clients, ensuring they are informed and supported throughout their case.
Notably, Mr. Levitz secured a top settlement of $730,000 for a client in 2021, demonstrating his ability to achieve remarkable results even in challenging situations.
Named one of the Top 40 National Trial Lawyers under 40 by The National Trial Lawyers Association and recognized as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers Magazine, Mr. Levitz continues to earn accolades for his dedication and expertise.
How Our New York City Slip and Fall Law Firm Can Help
At our New York City slip and fall law firm, we are committed to providing comprehensive support to clients dealing with the aftermath of an accident.
Here’s how we can assist you in your slip and fall claim:
- Recovering Lost Wages: If your slip and fall injury has forced you to miss work, we will work to ensure you receive compensation for the wages you’ve lost. We aim to help you regain financial stability while you focus on your recovery.
- Help with Medical Bills: Medical expenses can be overwhelming. We’ll help you secure compensation after a slip for all medical costs related to your injury, from emergency room visits to ongoing treatments and therapy.
- Property Damage: If your personal property, such as clothing or personal items, was damaged during the accident, we’ll include these damages in your claim to ensure you are fully compensated for all losses.
- Emotional Recovery: We understand that the impact of a trip and fall accident extends beyond physical injuries. We are here to support your emotional recovery by addressing the pain and suffering caused by the accident and seeking compensation for these non-economic damages.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often aim to settle claims quickly and for the least amount possible. We will handle negotiations on your behalf, ensuring you receive a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your damages.
- Advocate for You in Civil Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, we are prepared to advocate for you in civil court. Our experienced attorneys will represent your interests, fighting for the compensation you deserve and ensuring your voice is heard.
Our firm is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the legal process, providing the expertise and support needed to achieve a successful outcome for your slip and fall case.
Your First Steps After a Slip and Fall Accident
If you’ve had a slip-and-fall accident, it can be overwhelming. However, taking the proper steps right after the accident can help your case. Here’s what you should do:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if you feel okay after your fall, seeing a doctor immediately is essential. Sometimes, slip and fall accident injuries don’t show up immediately, and getting checked out ensures everything is documented and helps prevent any issues later on.
- Attend All Medical Appointments and Follow Expert Advice: Make sure to attend all your medical appointments and follow your doctor’s advice. Sticking to your treatment plan helps you heal and shows that you’re serious about getting better, which is important for your case.
- Document the Incident: Take as many photos as possible of where the accident happened, any hazards, and your injuries. If there were any witnesses, get their contact details and statements. This evidence can be significant for your fall injury claim.
- Report the Incident: Inform the property owner or manager about the accident and complete an incident report. This creates an official record of what happened, which can be important for your slip-and-fall accident case.
- Get in Touch with Slip and Fall Lawyers in New York City: Contact an experienced New York City slip and fall lawyer from our firm, so we can help you through the legal process. We can handle negotiations, protect your rights, and fight for fair compensation.
- Stay Off Social Media: Avoid posting about your accident or injuries on social media. Insurance companies might use your posts against you, so it's best to keep things offline.
- Don’t Accept the First Offer from the Insurance Company: Insurance companies often offer a quick, low settlement. Before accepting any offer, talk to a lawyer to ensure it covers all your damages and losses.
- Be Careful with Language Used in Communications with the Insurance Company: Watch what you say to the insurance company. Avoid admitting fault or minimizing your injuries. It is a good idea to speak with your lawyer before discussing your case with them.
- Keep Detailed Records: Keep track of all your medical treatments, expenses, and how the injury affects your daily life. This information will support your slip and fall accident claim and show the full impact of your injuries.
- Preserve Evidence: Hang onto any clothing or personal items damaged in the accident. These can help prove what happened and support your claim.
Following these steps can safeguard your rights and build a strong foundation for your case, giving yourself the best chance for a favorable outcome as you recover from your slip-and-fall accident.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Slip and Fall in New York City?
Depending on what happened, figuring out who’s at fault for a slip and fall in New York City can be tricky. Here’s a rundown of who could be held responsible:
- Private Property Owners: The property owner may be held responsible if you slip and fall on someone’s private property. This includes residential properties where the homeowner failed to maintain safe conditions, such as fixing broken steps or addressing slippery walkways.
- Landlords: Landlords must maintain rental properties in a safe condition. If a tenant suffers a slip and fall due to a hazardous condition that the landlord neglected to repair, the landlord could be held liable. This includes issues like broken staircases or unsafe floors in common areas.
- Property Managers are often responsible for maintaining the premises of commercial or residential properties. They may be held accountable if a slip and fall occurs because of a failure to manage or address unsafe conditions. This includes managing maintenance and ensuring that safety protocols are followed.
- Government Agencies can sometimes be liable, particularly if the slip and fall happened on public property or streets maintained by the city or state. Examples include accidents caused by poorly maintained sidewalks, defective street conditions, or neglected public facilities.
Deadlines to Be Aware Of
In New York, there are important deadlines you need to keep in mind when filing a slip-and-fall claim. The statute of limitations for New York slip and fall—the legal time limit for filing a lawsuit—is typically three years from the accident date, which means you generally have three years to bring your case to court.
Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to seek compensation, regardless of the strength of your case. That’s why it’s essential not to delay. An experienced New York personal injury lawyer from our firm can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and ensure all legal steps are taken within the required timeframe.
Acting quickly helps preserve critical evidence and gives you the best chance of getting your deserved compensation.
Don’t wait until the last minute—contact a knowledgeable NYC slip and fall lawyer as soon as possible to ensure your case is handled correctly and within the legal deadlines.
Gathering Evidence
After a slip and fall accident, gathering evidence is essential for building a strong case. Here’s what you should start collecting as soon as possible:
- Police Documentation: If the accident involved any law enforcement, obtain a copy of the police report. This official document can provide important details about the incident and help support your claim.
- Medical Records: Keep all your medical records related to the injury. This includes treatment notes, hospital discharge papers, and follow-up care documentation. These records show the extent of your injuries and how they’ve impacted your life.
- Eyewitness Statements: If there were any witnesses to the accident, try to get their contact information and statements. Their accounts can provide additional perspectives on what happened and strengthen your case.
- Photo/Video Evidence: Take pictures or videos of the accident scene, including any hazards that caused your fall. Also, document your injuries and any property damage. Visual evidence can be powerful in illustrating the conditions that led to your accident.
We know that collecting all this evidence can be difficult, especially when you're dealing with pain and trying to recover. That’s why it's a good idea to contact a slip-and-fall lawyer from our firm as soon as possible.
Let us handle the evidence collection and all the legal stuff so you can focus on improving. We’ll handle the hard work and ensure everything supports your case. Reach out to us, and we’ll guide you through the process.
What Can I Expect to Pay?
When hiring a lawyer for your slip-and-fall case, it's important to understand the costs involved. Our firm uses a contingency fee model, so you don’t have to worry about upfront costs or hourly rates.
Here’s how it works: We only get paid if you win your case. Our fee is a percentage of your compensation, so you won’t have to pay anything out of pocket unless you get a settlement or award. This means you can focus on your recovery without stressing about legal fees.
We aim to ensure that financial concerns don’t add to your burden. We work on your behalf to secure the best possible outcome, and our fee is only taken from the amount we recover for you. This way, our interests are aligned with yours, getting you the compensation you deserve.
Please contact us if you have any questions about our fees or the process. We’re here to help and ensure you understand every step of the way.
Why Choose Us Over Other Slip & Fall Accidents Attorneys in New York City?
Choosing the right attorney can make a big difference in slip-and-fall cases in New York City. Here’s why our firm stands out from the rest:
- Experienced Team: Our attorneys have extensive experience in slip and fall accidents and personal injury law. We’ve successfully handled numerous cases; our track record speaks for itself. Our deep understanding of New York City’s legal landscape ensures that we know how to navigate the complexities of your case effectively.
- Personalized Attention: We believe in giving each client the attention they deserve. Unlike larger firms, where you might feel like just another case, we take the time to understand your unique situation and needs. Our personalized approach means you’ll have direct communication with your attorney and a dedicated team working on your behalf.
- Proven Results: We’ve achieved significant results for our clients, securing substantial settlements and verdicts. Our commitment to fighting for the best possible outcome has earned us a reputation for excellence. When you work with us, you benefit from our proven track record of success.
- Client-Centered Approach: We are dedicated to making the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible. From handling all the legal paperwork to negotiating with insurance companies, we take care of the details so you can focus on your recovery. Our priority is your well-being and ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.
- No Upfront Costs: With our contingency fee model, you don’t have to worry about paying legal fees until we win your case. This means you can get the legal support you need without financial strain, and we only get paid if you do.
General Information on Slip and Fall Accidents in New York City
Slip and fall accidents are a big issue in New York City, affecting many people yearly. Knowing what usually causes these accidents and the kinds of injuries people often get can show why getting legal help is essential if you’re hurt.
Common Causes of Slips and Falls
Slip and fall accidents in New York City often result from everyday hazards that can turn dangerous if not properly managed. Common causes of slip and fall accidents include:
- Wet or Slippery Floors: Spills, weather conditions, or unmarked cleaning activities can create dangerously slippery surfaces. In New York City, wet floor incidents frequently cause slip-and-fall accidents.
- Uneven Surfaces: Broken sidewalks, damaged flooring, and uneven pavement can easily cause trips and falls. NYC’s busy streets and sidewalks are prone to these issues, which can lead to accidents.
- Poor Lighting: Inadequate lighting can make it difficult to see hazards, leading to falls. Poorly lit staircases and walkways are common problem areas in the city.
- Obstructed Walkways: Items left in walkways, like construction materials or debris, can create tripping hazards. This is especially problematic in crowded urban environments where obstructions are more likely.
In New York City, the number of fall-related injuries among older adults (65 and older) has stayed about the same over the past decade. However, with the older population expected to grow by 45% between 2010 and 2030, we might see a big increase in these injuries. This makes tackling slip and fall hazards around the city even more important.
Injuries That We See
In New York City, some of the most common injuries from these accidents include:
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Many people suffer from fractures, particularly in the wrists, ankles, and hips. These injuries can be severe and often require long-term treatment.
- Head Injuries: Falls can cause concussions and other traumatic brain injuries, which can have lasting effects on a person's health and daily life.
- Back and Spinal Injuries: Damage to the spine or back is common in slip and fall accidents, leading to chronic pain or mobility issues.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and bruises may seem less severe but can still cause significant discomfort and affect a person’s ability to work or handle daily tasks.
According to the New York Department of Health, slip and fall incidents each year lead to an average of 52,673 hospitalizations. If you’ve been hurt in a slip-and-fall accident, it’s essential to get legal advice to ensure you receive the support and compensation you deserve.
Other Locations We Serve
Our team proudly covers the entire New York City area, ensuring we can assist clients throughout the region. In addition to the heart of the city, we serve the following areas:
- Brooklyn
- Garden City
- New York
- Queens
No matter where you are in New York City, our experienced NYC slip and fall attorneys are here to help with your slip and fall case. Reach out to our injury lawyer for experienced support wherever you may be.
Speak to a New York City Slip and Fall Accident Lawyer Today!
If you've been hurt in a slip-and-fall accident, getting help as soon as possible is essential. Our team is here to guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you need.
We're here to support you every step of the way.
Contact us today for a free case consultation with one of our skilled New York slip and fall lawyers. You can call us at (718) 521-2251 or fill out our contact form here.
Additional reading: average slip and fall settlement amounts
