Irvington Slip and Fall Lawyers

A slip and fall accident occurs when someone slips, trips, or loses balance and falls due to a hazardous condition on someone else’s property. These accidents happen in various locations, including private residences, public spaces like parks, or commercial establishments like grocery stores and parking lots.

The most common causes of slip and fall incidents include wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, or obstructions in walkways. The severity of injuries ranges from minor bruises to more serious fractures, sprains, or head trauma. In some cases, these accidents lead to long-term health issues or permanent disabilities.

The experienced Irvington slip and fall lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP help clients determine who was responsible for their slip and fall accidents. That is a key part of obtaining fair compensation for their injuries.

Who Is Responsible for a Slip and Fall Injury?

The responsibility for a slip and fall accident generally falls on the property owner or occupier. This includes businesses, landlords, or government entities who control or maintain the premises. Property owners are expected to maintain a safe environment for people who are legally present, including customers, tenants, or guests.

If a dangerous condition exists on the property and the owner knows about it or should have known about it, they may be held accountable for any resulting injuries. In some cases, liability may also extend to third parties, such as maintenance companies or contractors, if they contributed to the unsafe conditions.

What Must Be Proved in a Slip and Fall Case?

To succeed in a slip and fall case, it must be proven that the property owner or occupier was negligent in some way. This negligence could involve failing to repair a known hazard, not providing sufficient warnings about dangerous conditions, or failing to perform regular safety checks. The injured party must show that the property owner either created the dangerous condition or allowed it to persist for an unreasonable amount of time.

Additionally, the injured person must demonstrate that the unsafe condition directly caused their fall and resulting injuries. Our Irvington slip and fall lawyers gather evidence like witness statements, medical records, and photographs of the scene, all critical to supporting these claims.

What Types of Injuries Are Common in Slip and Fall Accidents?

Slip and fall accidents cause a variety of injuries, depending on the severity of the fall and the circumstances. Common injuries include sprains and strains, fractures, bruises, and cuts. More serious injuries might involve head trauma, spinal cord injuries, or broken bones.

For older adults, a slip and fall can lead to life-changing complications, such as hip fractures or head injuries, that may result in long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation. Even seemingly minor falls can cause significant health issues, so it is important to seek medical attention after you experience a slip and fall accident.

What Should I Do After a Slip and Fall Accident?

After a slip and fall accident, your first priority should be your health and safety. Seek medical treatment immediately, even if you feel the injuries are minor. Certain injuries, like concussions or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent. Report the accident to the property owner or manager as soon as possible, and make sure a record of the incident is created. Take photographs of the location where the fall occurred, especially if the hazard that caused the fall is still present.

If there were any witnesses to the accident, try to get their contact information. Keep detailed records of medical treatments and expenses related to the injury. These steps can help you if you decide to pursue a claim later.

How Long Do I Have to File a Slip and Fall Lawsuit?

In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for filing a slip and fall lawsuit is typically two years from the date of the accident. This means that you must file your lawsuit within two years or risk losing your right to pursue a claim. However, there are certain circumstances in which this time frame may be extended, such as if the injured party is a minor or if the injury was not immediately apparent.

It is important to consult our Irvington slip and fall lawyers as soon as possible; we can explain your options, help you meet all necessary deadlines, and protect your legal rights.

How Can I Prove Fault in a Slip and Fall Case?

Proving fault in a slip and fall case often requires gathering evidence that demonstrates the property owner’s negligence. This can include witness testimony, photos or video footage of the hazardous condition, maintenance records, and prior incident reports. If the property owner was aware of the dangerous condition and did not address it in a timely manner, it can be used to show that they were negligent.

Additionally, expert testimony, such as from a safety professional, may be necessary to establish the standard of care that was expected in maintaining the property. All of this evidence can help build a strong case for liability.

What Damages Can I Recover From a Slip and Fall Lawsuit?

If you are successful in a slip and fall lawsuit, our Irvington slip and fall lawyers may be able to recover various types of damages for you. These can include compensation for medical expenses related to your injuries, lost wages if you are unable to work, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

In some cases, you may also be entitled to punitive damages if the property owner’s actions were particularly reckless or egregious. The amount of compensation depends on the severity of your injuries, the extent of the property owner’s negligence, and the impact of the accident on your life.

The Skilled Irvington Slip and Fall Lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP Help Clients Seek Compensation for Their Injuries

If you were injured in a slip and fall accident, it is important to seek the help of a legal professional who can guide you. The experienced Irvington slip and fall lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP offer free consultations. Call our East Orange, New Jersey office at 973-675-8277 or complete our online form for more information. We serve clients in the surrounding areas.