-The information provided here is not meant to be legal advice; always consult an attorney in connection with your matter. Our attorneys are available to help.
Slip, trip, and fall accidents are among the most prevalent causes of injuries, affecting people of all ages. These accidents can happen anywhere and are often a result of negligence or hazardous conditions.
As personal injury lawyers, we’d like to provide an overview of the common scenarios we see that lead to slip, trip, and fall accidents and also the potential injuries that can result.
If you find yourself a victim of such an incident, we’ll also discuss the steps you should take to protect your rights and seek compensation.
Common Causes of Slip, Trip, and Fall Accidents
Accidents always seem unexpected but in truth, there are common causes that result in the vast majority of slip, trip, and fall accidents. These are issues that should be addressed and when they aren’t and lead to accidents, it can be argued that there was negligence.
This is the key principle underlying personal injury claims. Negligence, and failing to exercise the level of care expected under the circumstances, can lead to injuries or harm to another person.
Common scenarios of negligence and injury include:
Wet or Slippery Floors
Uneven Surfaces
Debris and Obstacles
Poor Lighting
Lack of Handrails
Inadequate Maintenance
What to Do if You’re a Victim
If you’ve been a victim of a slip, trip, or fall accident, it’s essential to take specific steps to protect your rights and seek compensation for your injuries.
First, you should seek medical attention. Your health should always come first. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it’s crucial to consult a medical professional to assess and document your condition.
While still at the accident scene, you will want to gather evidence and report the incident to local law enforcement. Take photos, including the hazardous condition that caused your fall. This evidence can be valuable in establishing liability.
After the accident itself, you will next want to protect your legal rights.
Consult a personal injury lawyer experienced in slip, trip, and fall cases. An attorney can assess the circumstances of your accident, guide you on your legal options, and help you pursue a claim for compensation.
With the guidance of your attorney, you will also want to document all records of your injuries, medical treatment, and all related expenses. This can strengthen your claim and provide support of lost wages, expenses, and trauma.
More importantly, with a personal injury lawyer on your side, you will be ensuring you receive all the compensation you deserve. Insurance companies may offer quick settlements, but it’s often in their interest to minimize payouts. Consult with your attorney before accepting any settlement offer.
New York Personal Injury Attorneys
Slip, trip, and fall accidents are more common than we may think, and they can lead to serious injuries with long-term consequences. Whether it’s a wet floor, an uneven sidewalk, or poor lighting, hazardous conditions can cause accidents that result in physical, emotional, and financial hardship.
If you find yourself a victim of a slip, trip, or fall accident, remember that you have legal rights and options for seeking compensation. By taking the right steps to protect those rights and seeking legal assistance from a personal injury lawyer, you can work toward holding negligent parties accountable and securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
At Ratsenberg & Associates, P.C. we understand personal injury claims and work with clients throughout the New York City area. With a free consultation, we can review the facts of your case and determine how we can help. Call us today at 718-676-5757 to get started and to protect your rights.