Slip and fall or trip and fall accidents can be caused by many circumstances. In an urban environment like New York City, accidents can happen as a result of snow, ice, poor lighting, abrupt changes in flooring levels or potholes and cracks in the ground. These falls can be extremely dangerous, resulting in severe injuries and even death.
Your rights after a Slip and Fall accident
If your accident occurs because of a negligent condition, you may be able to pursue a claim against the property owner or tenant to recover damages for your injuries (see Premises Liability).
You can also pursue a claim for damages against a state, county, city or other public entity if your accident occurs on government-owned property such as a sidewalk or subway station (see Municipal Liability).
Even if you believe that your actions partially contributed to your accident, it may be possible to receive compensation for the damages you suffered.
Regulations Covering Slip and Fall Accidents
The regulations governing what damages can be recovered in a slip and fall or trip and fall case vary by state. In general, one can attempt to recover damages from the party responsible for your accident for the following:
- Pain and suffering
- Limitations, embarrassment, depression, sexual difficulties and missed events and occasions that result from your accident
- Lost income due to your inability to work caused by the damages from your accident
- Medical expenses such as doctor visits, hospital stays and rehabilitation therapy
- Damaged property including the cost of clothing or other items damaged in the accident.
Documenting your accident is key
It is absolutely vital that you keep a record of your injuries. Also document any workdays or social occasions you are forced to miss as a result of your slip and fall accident. Your economic and non-economic costs, as a result of the accident, will form the basis for your potential recovery.
Legal Advice for Slip and Fall or Trip and Fall accidents
Schwartzapfel Partners has handled an impressive volume of these cases and has a thorough understanding of the state and federal laws applicable to personal injuries resulting from such incidents. We have the resources to investigate the circumstances of your accident and demonstrate the fault of the responsible party. These measures include obtaining statements from the parties at fault before they have a chance to speak with their insurance company or lawyer and recording eyewitness accounts while the event is recent. In cases engineers or other experts will examine the accident site to determine if violations exist.
Schwartzapfel Partners also provides a unique approach to personal injury litigation. Several of our attorneys come to us from the insurance industry and are not only familiar with the defense's tactics and techniques, but also know how best to combat them. Our experience and background puts us in the best position to maximize your likelihood of success and recovery.
If you or a loved one have been injured by a slip, trip or fall accident, please call us at 1.800.966.4999 or fill out the form to the right of the page for immediate attention to your case. We will fight for you!
