What to Do After a Slip and Fall in Queens, NY

Slip and fall accidents happen in various settings, from sidewalks and parking lots to office buildings and retail stores. These incidents can result from a range of hazardous conditions, including wet floors, uneven surfaces, and poor lighting. However, one of the most dangerous causes of slip and fall accidents is winter weather, particularly ice and snow. Here are tips from our Queens slip and fall attorneys on what to do after a slip and fall accident in Queens.

Who Is Responsible for a Slip and Fall Accident?
Property owners, landlords, and businesses in New York have a legal duty to keep their premises safe. This means addressing hazards in a timely manner, including clearing ice and snow after a storm. Failing to do so can create dangerous conditions, making walkways slippery and increasing the risk of serious injuries.

A slip and fall can happen anywhere, including:

• Residential buildings
• Commercial establishments
• Office buildings
• Parking lots
• Sidewalks

If you slip and fall due to an untreated or poorly maintained surface, the property owner or business may be held liable for your injuries. However, proving negligence in these cases requires strong evidence.

Slip and fall accidents can occur in a variety of places and for many different reasons. Common causes include wet floors in grocery stores, loose carpeting in office buildings, uneven sidewalks, and poor lighting in stairwells. Outdoor hazards, particularly in winter, pose a significant risk as well.

Ice and snow that have not been properly cleared from sidewalks, parking lots, and building entrances can quickly turn a routine walk into a dangerous situation. Additionally, water tracked indoors from melting ice can create slick surfaces inside businesses and residential buildings. No matter the setting, property owners are responsible for maintaining safe conditions and addressing hazards promptly to prevent serious injuries.

The Importance of Taking Pictures After a Fall
After a slip and fall accident, your first instinct may be to get up quickly and move on. But before you leave the scene, it’s crucial to document what happened. Taking pictures can play a vital role in proving your case.

Photographic evidence should include:

• The hazardous conditions that caused the fall, such as ice, snow, wet flooring, or a cracked sidewalk
• The surrounding area, including any nearby businesses or addresses
• Cross streets if you are unfamiliar with the location

Property owners often claim they cleared the area or deny that dangerous conditions existed. Without photographic proof, it becomes your word against theirs. If video surveillance is available, it may not always be accessible or could conveniently disappear. Having clear pictures can strengthen your case and protect your rights.

Steps to Take After a Slip and Fall Accident

• Take Pictures Immediately
  • Capture the condition that caused your fall before it is cleared or changed.
  • Take wide shots of the surrounding area and close-ups of the hazard.
• Seek Medical Attention
  • Even if you feel fine at the moment, injuries from falls can become apparent later.
  • A medical record can serve as evidence linking your injuries to the accident.
• Report the Incident
  • Notify the property owner, store manager, or landlord about the fall.
  • If it occurred on public property, file a report with the appropriate city department.
• Gather Witness Information
  • If anyone saw the fall, get their name and contact details.
  • Witnesses can help support your claim if the property owner disputes it.
• Contact a Slip and Fall Attorney
  • An experienced personal injury attorney will guide you through the legal process.
  • They can handle negotiations with insurance companies and ensure you receive fair compensation.

Common Injuries from Slip and Fall Accidents
Slip and fall injuries can range from minor bruises to life-altering conditions. Some common injuries include:

• Fractures (wrist, ankle, hip, etc.)
• Sprains and torn ligaments
• Head injuries, including concussions
• Back and spinal cord injuries

These injuries can result in medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing pain and suffering. Seeking legal help ensures that you are compensated for these damages.

How Bardizbanian & Associates, P.C., Can Help
If you have been injured in a slip and fall accident in Queens, Bardizbanian & Associates, P.C., is here to help. Our legal team has extensive experience handling slip and fall cases and will work tirelessly to protect your rights. We understand how difficult recovering from an injury can be, and we are committed to getting you the compensation you deserve.

We offer free consultations to review your case and discuss your legal options. Contact us online or give us a call at 332-264-5169.

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