SEASONED NASSAU COUNTY ATTORNEYS SEEK DAMAGES FOR SLIP & FALL VICTIMS

Reputable Mineola law firm holds property owners accountable for injuries

New York law imposes an obligation on property owners and operators to protect the public from unsafe conditions on their premises. If they fail to exercise the legally required duty of care and you slip and fall as a result, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. At the Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C., we are committed to helping New York slip-and-fall victims obtain the financial resources needed to cover costs of accident-related medical bills, lost income and emotional distress. From our office in Mineola, New York, our attorneys advise and represent accident victims on Long Island, in New York City, and in Westchester and Rockland counties.

Dedicated lawyers represent clients hurt in slips and falls on various properties

Slip-and-fall accidents can occur on any type of premises, including retail stores, restaurants, parking lots, residential buildings, office buildings, stairways and sidewalks. Such accidents are frequently caused by:

• Spills, puddles and lubricants — A floor may be slippery because of a spill or leak, tracked-in snow or wet leaves or a recent mopping. If the condition is not remedied immediately, a warning should be issued to visitors to take caution.
• Ice — When walkways are not properly salted, sanded or cleared of ice, pedestrians are put at risk. Black ice can be very difficult to see and even visible ice may be impossible to avoid.
• Damage and erosion — Uneven floorboards, loose carpet, worn stairs and crumbling concrete create serious tripping hazards.
• Inadequate handrails — Handrails placed along staircases and walkways should be fastened securely at a proper height and should be capable of supporting at least 200 pounds of weight.

Hip fractures and traumatic brain injuries are two of the most serious injuries associated with slip-and-fall accidents. Fractures, lacerations, puncture wounds, extensive bruising and sprains are among the other harmful consequences. In addition to emergency medical treatment, a victim may need surgery and long-term physical therapy to regain their health.

Our injury attorneys assist slip-and-fall victims and their loved ones through the process of compiling evidence of the cause of their accident. We also assist in documenting medical costs, lost wages and other expenses connected to the accident.

New York premises liability lawyers skilled in proving negligence

Commercial and residential property owners alike have a duty of care to keep their premises safe for lawful guests, tenants and visitors New York law holds property owners liable for preventable accidents that result from their negligence.

In order for a property owner to be responsible for your slip and fall, evidence must prove that a dangerous condition on the premises caused the accident and that the owner or operator of the property either:

• Caused the dangerous condition
• Knew about the dangerous condition and did nothing about it
• Reasonably should have known about the dangerous condition

A liable individual or business may be ordered to pay all or part of a victim’s accident-related costs. New York’s comparative negligence law calls for liability to be split between the property owner and any other parties — including the victim — whose negligence contributed to the injury.

New York has a three-year statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit. If you were hurt in a slip-and-fall accident, it is advisable to speak with a lawyer promptly. Property owners often fix or cover up hazardous conditions after someone is injured and so it is important to work swiftly to document the condition before it disappears. Our attorneys go to great lengths to investigate the facts and to compile all relevant evidence as soon as we are retained as counsel. During settlement negotiations and at trial, we work diligently to help each client pursue their desired outcome.

Contact caring Long Island slip-and-fall accident lawyers to schedule your free consultation

Located in Mineola, New York, the slip-and-fall injury attorneys at the Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C. help clients pursue financial damages from business and residential property owners on Long Island and across the Greater New York City area. To schedule a free initial consultation with one of our attorneys, call 516-294-5050 or contact us online.

How Our Slip-and-Fall Accident Lawyer in Long Island, NY Can Help Your Case

Slip-and-fall accidents are sudden and can lead to a great amount of suffering for the victim. The Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C., has the experience to help you seek the financial compensation needed to recover from your accident. When you work with our Long Island slip-and-fall lawyers, your care is the highest priority. 

Why it is a Good Idea to Have a Long Island Slip-and-Fall Attorney in Your corner when Working with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies do everything they can to minimize your claim when you suffer from a slip-and-fall injury. The claims process is rarely straightforward, which is why it is a benefit to have a knowledgeable slip-and-fall accident attorney in Long Island on your side. 

Some ways insurance companies may attempt to reduce the extent of your claim can include: 

• Claiming you have exaggerated the extent of your injuries or suffering.
• Surveilling you, including through social media pages, to prove that your injuries are not as severe as you claim.
• Attempting to prove that you are to blame for your injuries due to reckless behavior. 

A seasoned Long Island injury lawyer can help you navigate through these tactics and protect you throughout this process. 

Protecting Your Claim and Working With a Long Island Slip-and-fall Lawyer

Any seasoned Long Island trip-and-fall lawyer will advise you to take the following actions after suffering this type of accident: 

• First, report the accident as soon as you are able by filling out an accident report form. It is a good idea to request your own copy of this report. 
• Take your own photos of the incident location and the condition of your sustained injuries using as many angles as possible.
• Keep the clothing you were wearing at the time of the slip-and-fall accident and do not clean it. These clothing items (from your shirt to shoes) could be used to support your claim. 
• Exercise extreme caution on social media. This means entirely avoiding the mention of your slip-and-fall accident, publishing images of the location, or any other factors about the incident. 
• Do not sign anything or give any recorded statements to the insurance adjuster without the guidance of your Long Island slip-and-fall lawyer. 

What Else Does a Long Island Personal Injury Attorney Do?

When you hire a Long Island slip-and-fall lawyer, you can expect them to use their experience to guide you through the process of filing your claim and seeking compensation for any injuries incurred. 

Your Long Island injury lawyer will assist you by:

• Gathering any evidence that can support your claim such as witness statements.
• Determining all parties that can be held liable for the incident by studying the accident details. 
• Writing up a plan to put forward the strongest possible case for you,
• Representing you in court and handling all negotiations as they arise. 
• Being the main point of contact for the defendant’s lawyers and any involved insurance companies. 

Don’t Delay. Connect With a Long Island Slip-and-fall Lawyer as Soon as Possible

In New York, the general rule is that you have three years from the date of your slip-and-fall accident to bring it to action via a claim. The only exception is if the claim involves a municipal entity such as The County of Nassau, in which you have 90 days to file a notice of claim, and one year and 90 days to file a lawsuit. 

It is best to take action with the guidance of a Long Island accident lawyer as soon as possible, regardless of if you slip and fall at work on Long Island, or at another location. The Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C. can provide you with assistance, all you need to do is contact us!

What Types of Compensation Are Available for Slip-and-Fall Victims in New York?

According to the National Safety Council, 865 workers died because of fatal falls in 2022. Although not all slips or falls end in fatality, hundreds of thousands of them cause injuries. When this happens, seeking immediate medical attention and legal guidance from a slip-and-fall lawyer is crucial.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a slip-and-fall accident, you may be wondering what types of compensation you can recover for your injuries. Slip-and-fall accidents can lead to serious injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

As a personal injury attorney, the Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C., understands your challenges after such an accident. In this guide, we will explain the types of compensation available for slip-and-fall victims in New York and why seeking legal representation for slip-and-fall accidents is helpful.

Understanding Slip-and-Fall Accidents and Compensation

Slip-and-fall accidents can occur anywhere, including stores, restaurants, office buildings, and public sidewalks, because of hazardous conditions like wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poor lighting, even at work. 

As a premises liability lawyer, we’ve seen firsthand the impact these accidents can have on victims’ lives.

In New York, property owners are legally obligated to maintain safe premises for visitors. When they fail to do so, and someone is injured as a consequence, the victim may be entitled to compensation. This is where a Long Island personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process.

The types of compensation available in slip-and-fall cases can be broadly categorized into economic and non-economic damages. Let’s explore each category in detail.

Economic Damages in Slip-and-Fall Cases

Economic damages refer to the quantifiable financial losses incurred from the accident. These damages are typically easier to calculate as they often have specific dollar amounts attached to them. Here are some common types of economic damages:

• Medical Expenses: These include costs for emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any ongoing medical treatment related to your injuries.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for both past and future lost wages.
• Loss of Earning Capacity: In severe cases where your injuries affect your ability to earn income in the future, you may be compensated for this loss of earning potential.
• Property Damage: If any personal property (such as a smartphone or watch) was damaged during the fall, you may be compensated for repair or replacement costs.
• Out-of-pocket Expenses: These may include transportation to medical appointments, home modifications to accommodate injuries, or hiring help for household tasks you can no longer perform.

According to the National Floor Safety Institute, slips and falls account for over one million hospital emergency room visits annually, highlighting the significant impact of these incidents on public health and the potential for substantial medical expenses. Once you’ve received the medical attention you need, a property negligence attorney can help you navigate the claims process and determine which types of economic compensation you may be able to pursue.

Non-Economic Damages in Slip-and-Fall Cases

Non-economic damages are more subjective and don’t have a clear monetary value. These damages compensate for the intangible losses you’ve suffered from the accident.

As a slip-and-fall injury lawyer, we can help quantify these damages based on the specifics of your case. Common types of non-economic damages include:

• Pain and Suffering: This compensates for the physical pain and discomfort you’ve experienced due to your injuries.
• Emotional Distress: Accidents can cause significant psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you previously enjoyed, you may be compensated for this loss.
• Loss of Consortium: In severe cases, your spouse may be able to pursue compensation for the loss of companionship and support due to your injuries.
• Disfigurement or Permanent Disability: If your injuries leave you permanently scarred or disabled, you may be able to pursue additional compensation.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that one out of five falls causes a serious injury, such as broken bones or trauma to the head, underscoring the potential for significant non-economic damages in slip-and-fall cases.

Contact the Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C., When You Need a Mineola Slip-and-Fall Lawyer

Navigating a slip-and-fall case can be complex, but you don’t have to face it alone. At the Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C., we understand the unique challenges of proving slip-and-fall liability and pursuing different kinds of compensation.

Our team of dedicated slip-and-fall lawyers understands the nuances of New York premises liability law and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’ve been injured in a slip-and-fall accident in Mineola or the surrounding areas. Contact the Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C., at (516) 294-5050 to discuss your case with an injury claim lawyer today.

Frequently Asked Slip and Fall Accident Questions

How common are slip-and-fall accidents at work?

Slip-and-fall accidents are a leading cause of lost days from work. If your slip and fall happened at work, speak with our attorneys before filing a workers’ compensation claim. You may qualify for greater compensation through a lawsuit. 

What is the legal term for a slip-and-fall case?

A slip-and-fall case is called a premises liability case. If you seek legal guidance, you would need to hire a Long Island premises liability lawyer. 

Do slip-and-fall accidents commonly lead to death?

Slip-and-fall accidents are the cause of half of all accidental deaths in a home. 

How much is the average slip-and-fall settlement?

The average slip-and-fall settlement in New York can vary significantly based on several factors, including the severity of the injuries, the extent of the property owner’s negligence, and the impact on the victim’s life. Consulting with an experienced slip-and-fall attorney can provide more personalized guidance to better understand potential settlement amounts. Contact us for a free consultation!

What Should I Do Right After a Slip-and-Fall Accident?

Seek medical attention, report the incident to the property owner, and document the scene if possible. These steps can help preserve evidence and strengthen your potential claim.

How Long Can I Wait To File a Slip-and-Fall Claim in New York?

In New York, the statute of limitations for slip-and-fall claims is generally three years from the accident date. In cases that involve a municipality, the statute of limitations are shorter. You have ninety (90) days from the date of the accident to file a notice of claim, and one year and ninety (90) days to commence a lawsuit. it’s wise to consult a slip-and-fall injury lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.

If I Was Partially At Fault for My Slip-and-Fall Accident, Can I Still Pursue Compensation?

Yes, the state of New York follows a comparative negligence rule. You can still potentially recover damages even if you were partially at fault, but compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

How Much Is My Slip-and-Fall Case Worth?

The value of a slip-and-fall case varies depending on factors such as injury severity, medical expenses, and impact on your life. After reviewing your case details, a slip-and-fall lawyer can provide a more accurate estimate.