WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE A VICTIM OF A SLIP AND FALL ACCIDENT

Slip and fall accidents are the second leading cause of death in the U.S., and a majority of slip and fall accidents happen because of hazardous environmental conditions – a slick sidewalk, a wet floor, a defect in the walking surface – which are often the result of poor maintenance or design, or neglect. They can occur anywhere – at someone’s home, in a grocery store, at an office, or in a shopping mall.

If a property owner has failed to maintain his or her property or created unsafe conditions, there may be sufficient cause for a lawsuit.  Even if a property owner did not cause the unsafe condition, but knew about it and did nothing, this may also be sufficient cause for a suit.

If you’ve suffered an injury because of a slip and fall accident, you need to first be sure to take care of your injury properly by seeking medical attention.  If possible, take photos with your cell phone of the hazard that caused you to slip and fall.  If you are unable to take a photo, ask someone nearby to do it for you.

You will need to report your slip and fall accident to the property owner or store manager immediately as well.  If your accident occurred in a commercial establishment, an incident report should be filed and a copy obtained for your file.

Finally, contact a qualified New York injury attorney so you will be fully aware of all your rights and the actions that need to be taken to recover any potential damages owed to you.