If you have been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, you can rely on an experienced New York City Premises Liability Attorney for quality legal representation. Please continue reading to learn how slip and fall accidents happen and who is responsible for the medical bills you’ll incur.
How Do Slip and Fall Accidents Happen?
Unfortunately, there are numerous hazards on a property that can lead to a slip-and-fall accident in New York. Property owners are responsible for maintaining safe premises for everyone to be on. If they fail to ensure that there are no hazards, it can result in devastating injuries. The following include some of the most common hazards that can result in a slip-and-fall accident:
- Wet floors
- Debris on the ground
- Broken stairs or handrails
- Loose floorboards or tiles
- Bulging carpeting
- Potholes or cracks
- Uneven flooring or sidewalks
- Exposed wiring or other tripping hazards
- Inadequate security
- Uncleared ice or snow
Who is Responsible for Paying My Medical Bills Following a Slip and Fall Injury?
Generally, the property owner where the slip and fall occurred will be responsible for paying any damages associated with the incident. This is because property owners in New York have a duty of care to visitors, meaning they must ensure their premises are safe and free from hazards. If a property owner fails to maintain a safe environment for guests, they can be held liable for any damages that result from their negligence.
Following your injury, your insurance will likely cover the cost of your medical care. However, if your damages exceed your coverage, you can pursue legal action directly against the at-fault party for the remaining amount. It’s important to note that the level of duty owed varies depending on the status of the injured party.
Property owners owe the highest duty of care to invitees compared to a licensee or trespasser. This means they must take reasonable steps to ensure their safety while on the premises. Licensees receive a lesser duty of care, whereas trespassers generally have no duty of care owed to them by property owners. If you were trespassing and that is the cause of your accident, you will not have a valid claim for compensation.
Furthermore, you should keep in mind that before you can recover compensation for your damages, you must prove that the property owner knew or should have reasonably known about the dangerous conditions and failed to remedy them, ultimately resulting in a slip-and-fall accident. This requires substantial evidence, which is why it’s in your best interest to enlist the help of a determined attorney.
At Swerling Law, we are prepared to help you fight for the full and fair compensation you are entitled to. Connect with our firm today for legal advice and skilled representation.