Manhattan Slip and Fall Attorneys: Fighting for Your Rights After an Injury
Slip and fall accidents are a leading cause of serious injuries in Manhattan. Negligent property owners often fail to address hazards like wet floors, broken sidewalks, icy patches, and broken stairs, putting innocent people at risk. If you've been injured in a slip and fall accident in Manhattan, the attorneys at Veridian Legal can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Slip and Fall Accidents in Manhattan
Slip and fall accidents occur when someone loses their footing and falls due to a hazardous condition on someone else's property. These accidents can happen anywhere in Manhattan, from bustling sidewalks and busy subway stations to restaurants, retail stores, and apartment buildings.
Common Causes of Slip and Falls in Manhattan:
Property owners and businesses in Manhattan have a legal responsibility to maintain safe premises for visitors, customers, and employees. When they fail to do so, they can be held liable for the injuries and losses caused by their negligence. This is known as "premises liability."
Here are some common hazards that lead to slip and fall accidents in Manhattan:
Wet Surfaces: Spills in grocery stores, rain tracked into building lobbies, or freshly mopped floors without warning signs can all create slippery surfaces.
Icy Surfacs: In the winter, icy patches on sidewalks and steps pose a significant risk. Property owners must take proactive steps to prevent these hazards, such as providing adequate warnings, promptly cleaning up spills, and clearing snow and ice.
Defective Conditions: Broken or uneven stairs, cracked or uneven sidewalks, loose rugs or mats, potholes, and inadequate lighting can all contribute to slip and fall accidents. Property owners have a duty to maintain their premises in a safe condition and repair any defects promptly.
Where Do Slip and Fall Accidents Happen in Manhattan?
Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere in Manhattan. Some common locations include:
Sidewalks
Hotels
Apartment buildings
Office buildings
Restaurants
Retail stores
Grocery stores
Construction sites
Subway stations
Types of Injuries from Manhattan Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, including:
Fractures: Broken bones, including wrist fractures, ankle fractures, and hip fractures, are common in slip and fall accidents.
Head Injuries: Concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries can result from falls, especially if the victim hits their head.
Spinal Cord Injuries: In severe cases, slip and falls can lead to spinal cord injuries, which can cause paralysis or other permanent disabilities.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and tears of muscles, ligaments, and tendons are also common.
Other Injuries: Other potential injuries include cuts, bruises, and lacerations.
What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident in Manhattan
If you've been injured in a slip and fall accident in Manhattan, it's important to take the following steps:
Seek Medical Attention: See a doctor immediately, even if you think your injuries are minor. Some injuries may not be apparent right away.
Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including the hazard that caused your fall.
Report the Accident: Report the accident to the property owner or manager. If the accident occurred on public property, report it to the appropriate government agency.
Gather Witness Information: If there were any witnesses, get their contact information.
Preserve Evidence: Keep the shoes and clothing you were wearing at the time of the accident.
Contact a Manhattan Slip and Fall Lawyer: An experienced lawyer can help you understand your rights and options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Slip and Fall in Manhattan?
In New York, the statute of limitations for slip and fall cases is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, there are some exceptions, so it's crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss any deadlines.
Who's to Blame? Understanding Slip and Fall Liability in Manhattan
Property owners in Manhattan have a legal duty to keep their premises reasonably safe for visitors. If they fail to do so and someone is injured as a result of a hazardous condition, they can be held liable for the victim's injuries and losses.
Proving Negligence:
To prove negligence in a slip and fall case, you'll need to show that:
The property owner owed you a duty of care.
The property owner breached that duty by failing to maintain a safe premises.
The breach of duty caused your injuries.
You suffered damages as a result of your injuries.
Our experienced Manhattan slip and fall lawyers can help you gather evidence and build a strong case to prove negligence and secure the compensation you deserve.
How Our Team Handles Manhattan Slip and Fall Cases
At Veridian Legal, we have a dedicated team of slip and fall lawyers with extensive experience handling cases in Manhattan. We will:
Thoroughly investigate your accident to determine liability.
Gather evidence to support your claim, including witness statements, photos, and videos.
Negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement.
File a lawsuit and represent you in court if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
New York follows a comparative negligence rule. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation, but your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
How much compensation can I receive for my injuries?
The amount of compensation you can receive depends on the severity of your injuries, your medical expenses, lost wages, and other factors. We will work to maximize your recovery and ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses.
What if the property owner doesn't have insurance?
Even if the property owner doesn't have insurance, you may still be able to recover compensation through other means, such as suing the property owner personally or pursuing a claim through your own insurance policy.
Contact Our Manhattan Slip and Fall Lawyers Today
If you've been injured in a slip and fall accident in Manhattan, don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to listen, provide support, and help you explore your legal options.