In New York City, slip-and-fall accidents are among the most common ways people are injured. Unfortunately, falls can happen anywhere and at any time. If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, you may assume it’s your fault. However, property owners are responsible for maintaining safe premises for everyone. Failure to ensure no hazards are present can result in devastating injuries. If you have been seriously injured due to someone else’s negligence, it’s in your best interest to contact a determined New York City Premises Liability Attorney who can help you fight for the funds you deserve.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Slip and Fall Accidents?
Slip-and-fall accidents are generally avoidable. However, they are fairly common due to negligence. When property owners fail to ensure their property is safe for customers, guests, and employees, they can be held liable for any damages that result from their negligence. One of the leading causes of slip-and-fall accidents in New York is wet and uneven surfaces. Property owners and businesses have a legal duty to systematically inspect their premises and remedy dangerous hazards as quickly as possible. If they cannot remedy the danger, they must put up the appropriate warning signage. The following include but are not limited to common defects in flooring that can lead to accidents:
- Loose floorboards
- Loose mats
- Recently waxed or mopped floors
- Worn or torn carpeting
- Poorly constructed staircases
- Potholes and cracks in parking lots
- Cluttered floors
- Defective sidewalks
Moreover, it’s impossible to control the weather. However, severe slip-and-fall accidents can occur when property owners fail to take the necessary steps to mitigate the risk of accidents by shoveling sidewalks, salting walkways, or plowing streets during inclement weather conditions. In addition to weather, many slip and fall accidents are caused by a lack of employee training. Business owners are responsible for adequately training their employees to spot slip and fall dangers and take the appropriate actions to ensure visitors are not at risk. For instance, if they spot a spill, they must quickly remedy the situation and place the proper warning signage to safeguard visitors from hazardous property conditions. It’s important to note that they should know how to avoid being injured in a slip-and-fall accident.
What Should I Do If I’m Injured?
If you have suffered injuries and financial damages due to a slip and fall, you may have legal recourse. However, you will be burdened to prove that a property owner or employee negligently caused your accident. That said, it’s in your best interest to enlist the help of an experienced New York City premises liability attorney who can help you hold responsible parties accountable for their negligence.
At Swerling Law, we understand how complex these matters can be. Unfortunately, proving negligence in slip-and-fall cases is not always straightforward. Our legal team is prepared to help you fight for the justice you deserve. Contact our skilled attorneys today to learn how we can assist you.