Accidents happen on private or public property that can leave people with emotional, physical and financial wounds. Slip-and-fall accidents are particularly common in New York and elsewhere. This week, this column will address some common questions that victims of slip\-and\-fall accidents may like answered.
Question number one: What are some common causes of slip-and-fall accidents? These kinds of accidents can happen anytime and anywhere. It all depends on one’s surroundings. Wet floors, uneven floors, rumpled mats, ice, snow and a number of things can contribute to a slip-and-fall accident.
Question number two: Who is liable for a victim’s losses? Following a slip-and-fall accident, a victim will want to know who is responsible. That is reasonable. The simple truth is, the property owner may be responsible and held accountable if negligence can be established. Negligence, in such cases, being he or she failing to correct the hazard or post appropriate warnings.
Question number three: Is litigation the only way to seek compensation? Not all slip-and-fall cases go to court. Some can be settled through out-of-court negotiations. Litigation may only be necessary if attempts to settle prove fruitless.
New York residents, or visitors to the state, who are injured in slip-and-fall accidents may be entitled to seek compensation for their losses. It all depends on the facts of their cases. An experienced attorney can review the details of the incident and help one pursue damages if doing so is deemed legally appropriate. If it is, full and fair compensation for economic and non-economic damages may be sought.
Source: FindLaw, “Slip and Fall Injuries“, Accessed on Jan. 22, 2018
