It should come as no surprise that in a city as bustling as NYC, slip-and-fall accidents are fairly commonplace. Sidewalks, crowded subways, and slippery surfaces in various establishments are the usual causes of these accidents — these can lead to multiple injuries or worse, death. Alarmingly, unintentional falls are a major contributor to both fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults in the United States, particularly in New York State.
If you or a loved one has experienced such an incident, consulting with a New York slip-and-fall lawyer can be crucial in dealing with such cases. Here, we highlight the most common causes of slip-and-fall incidents in NYC.
Common Causes of Slip-and-Fall Accidents in New York City
In New York City, there’s no shortage of hazards that can cause slip-and-fall accidents, including:
Uneven Sidewalks or Walkways
NYC’s constant activity contributes to neglected infrastructure, so it’s important to watch out for uneven sidewalks and walkways. These common tripping hazards can pose serious risks, especially with millions of people walking the city’s streets daily. A single misstep on an uneven surface or a poorly maintained sidewalk can easily lead to a trip and fall, potentially causing significant injuries.
Spills Resulting in Slippery Surfaces
Spills are a common culprit behind slippery surfaces in NYC’s bustling establishments, from trendy Manhattan cafes to bustling museums and packed grocery stores. These slippery surfaces, however, often go unnoticed until someone complains about it or worse, someone slips. Given the high foot traffic in many establishments, both patrons and employees can contribute to this risk, which is why businesses must be vigilant in implementing proper cleaning protocols. Sadly, not all establishments do this, resulting in avoidable accidents.
Falls on Public Transport
Public transport is the lifeblood of New York City, but it’s also a hotspot for slip-and-fall accidents. Falls on buses, subways, and trains are often caused by wet floors, sudden stops, and crowded conditions. Ideally, public transport systems would be always well maintained, but that is not the case. Poorly maintained bus stops and icy subway platforms are commonplace, particularly during rush hours when the number of commuters peaks.
Weather-Related Hazards
Depending on the time of the year, New York’s weather can be unpredictable. Winter transforms sidewalks into icy obstacle courses, while rain can create treacherous puddles indoors. Property owners have a responsibility to ensure everyone’s safety, but unfortunately, lapses in maintenance are all too common.
Poor Lighting
Dimly lit stairwells, walkways, and parking lots can make it difficult to see potential hazards. And when your visibility is compromised, you run the risk of slipping or tripping. Given New York’s aging infrastructures, lighting issues in various areas tend to be overlooked, posing a danger to residents and visitors.
Inadequate Maintenance
Broken handrails, loose tiles, and other neglected repairs create a dangerous environment ripe for slip-and-fall accidents. The risk grows even higher when property owners and managers fail to conduct regular inspections and address these hazards.
Compensation for Slip-and-Fall Accidents
A slip-and-fall accident can leave you facing huge medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Fortunately, New York law allows victims to seek compensation for these losses. Here’s a breakdown of what you might be entitled to:
Medical Expenses
One of the primary compensations available is for medical expenses. This includes costs related to emergency room visits, surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatments. Keeping a detailed record of all medical expenses is essential for building a strong case.
Lost Wages
Slip-and-fall injuries often lead to LLP missed workdays and lost income. Victims can claim compensation for the income they would have earned had the accident not occurred, including past lost wages and future earnings if the injury affects long-term employment.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation isn’t limited to financial losses. Victims can also seek damages for pain and suffering. Calculating pain and suffering can be complex, which is why it requires the expertise of a seasoned lawyer.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages may be awarded in cases where a property owner’s negligence demonstrates a flagrant disregard for the safety of others. These are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
How Keith D. Silverstein & Associates Can Help
At Keith D. Silverstein & Associates, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial burdens a slip-and-fall accident can cause. That’s why we’re dedicated to helping you get the compensation you deserve. Our experienced attorneys will investigate your accident, collect evidence, and construct a strong case in your favor. We’ll manage every stage of the legal process, including filing the necessary claims and representing you in court if litigation becomes necessary. Just give us a call or leave us a message.
