Accidents happen, even in places you expect to be safe, such as your local grocery store, a favorite restaurant, or a bustling retail shop in New York City. If you’ve suffered an injury on someone else’s property, you may be questioning your rights and whether to seek legal assistance. Under New York law, premises liability claims can be tough to navigate on your own. Knowing when to call a New York premises liability attorney could make all the difference in protecting your interests and getting the right compensation.
Common Types of Injuries on Store or Business Premises in New York
This is a pretty common scenario in NYC: you’re walking out of a busy Manhattan deli on a chilly winter morning. The steps are slick with ice that wasn’t properly cleared, and before you know it, you slip and fall hard, injuring your back. In this scenario, it’s not just the pain you have to deal with but also the medical bills, missed work, and emotional stress that come with it.
Is the deli owner responsible? Should you try handling this alone or get professional legal help? These are common questions we hear at our law offices, and the answers depend on your situation.
Premises liability cases typically arise when someone is injured due to hazardous conditions on another person’s property. Retailers and various other businesses are some of the most frequent places where these accidents happen. Here are a few common accidents you might encounter:
- Slip-and-fall accidents: Wet floors from spilled liquids, icy sidewalks, or recently mopped aisles are a leading cause of injuries. Icy entrances, in particular, are a significant hazard for customers and visitors during harsh New York winters.
- Trip-and-fall incidents: Uneven flooring, broken tiles, loose rugs, or cluttered walkways can cause you to trip and fall. In crowded businesses across the city, obstacles like misplaced merchandise or poor lighting increase the risk.
- Other injuries: Falling objects from poorly stacked shelves, malfunctioning escalators or elevators, and even inadequate security leading to assaults can also be grounds for premises liability claims.
New York property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe premises for customers and guests. When they fail in this responsibility, and you’re injured as a result, the law may hold them liable for your damages.
When Should You Call a New York Premises Liability Attorney?
If you’ve been hurt on store or business property, it’s natural to wonder whether you need legal representation. Here are some clear signs that contacting a New York premises liability attorney is the right move:
Your injury required medical treatment or time off work. Note that some injuries may seem mild and harmless at first but can worsen over time.
The business owner or their insurance company denies responsibility or disputes the facts.
You’ve experienced lost income, chronic pain, or lasting disability due to an accident.
The insurance company offers a settlement offer that feels way too low. Some companies may also deliberately delay communication.
You’re confused about your legal rights or the claims process.
It can be risky to handle premises liability claims on your own. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and without a skilled attorney, you might settle for less than you deserve. Having an experienced lawyer familiar with New York’s specific laws can tip the scales in your favor.
How a Store Injury Lawyer NYC Can Help You
A store injury lawyer in NYC does several things besides file paperwork; they also become your advocate throughout the claims process. Here’s what you can expect from working with a seasoned New York premises liability attorney:
- Investigating your accident thoroughly: Your attorney will gather surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, and maintenance records to strengthen your case.
- Handling communications with insurance companies: Lawyers negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair settlement and protect you from unfair tactics.
- Guiding you through the legal system: Premises liability cases can be complex, especially with New York’s comparative negligence laws that can affect your claim’s value.
Because local laws vary, working with a lawyer experienced in New York premises liability cases ensures you have an advocate who understands the nuances that can impact your claim.
What to Do If You’ve Been Injured at a Store or Any Business Establishment
Injuries on business premises can be both physically painful and financially overwhelming. Protecting your rights starts with taking the right steps after your accident:
- Document the scene, such as by taking photos, noting hazards, and gathering witness information.
- Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, seek medical attention promptly.
- Notify the business about the incident so there’s an official record.
If you’re facing mounting bills, lost wages, or confusion about your next steps, reach out to a New York premises liability attorney sooner rather than later. At Keith D. Silverstein & Associates, we offer free consultations to help you understand your options and fight for a just and fair compensation. Call us at (866) 478-4217 or leave us a message.
